Overview

Cambodia was inflicted with the horrors of mass genocide at the hands of the Khmer Rouge regime from 1975-1979.  Targeting the educated, influential, and religious leaders, the rebel faction attempted to break the spirit of independence and development for the nation.  It is estimated that up to 3 million people died as a direct result of this genocide or related disease and starvation, resulting in the internationally recognized mass graveyard in Phnom Penh known as The Killing Fields.  The disorder, corruption, and poverty resulted in a rise in the child sex trafficking industry that still plagues the country to this day.

Need

According to the US State Department’s Trafficking in Persons Reports, Cambodia is identified as a major source, transit, and destination country for child sex trafficking.  A recent UNICEF survey estimates that there are 55,000 young women and girls currently trapped in sexual slavery in Cambodia, and 35% are under the age of 16.  

In 2005, Agape International Missions (AIM) responded to this tragedy and opened the NewSong Center to provide long-term aftercare for girls rescued from trafficking.  In this residential treatment program, physical, psychosocial, educational, vocational, and spiritual needs are met by a comprehensive program and fully trained staff led by Executive Director, Donald Brewster.  This is a high security facility to ensure safety, and AIM works together with organizations such as International Justice Mission (IJM) to provide secure housing for girls rescued from trafficking in particularly severe or high profile cases.  This program is intended to provide socialization and reintegration skills to promote a healthy life.

The Project

A vital component to rehabilitation is professional counseling to address past abuse and its effects on esteem needs.  Without this, victims are left to process trauma issues without support and guidance.  For under-aged girls the assault occurred in formative years when they were still shaping their view of their self and their sexuality and establishing their foundations for value and emotional, physical, and spiritual wellbeing.  With sound guidance, they are equipped with strength to both address the trauma and ramifications, as well as move forward with a healthy life.  

With a staff of nine counselors and social workers, the professionals work in teams of three to provide comprehensive support to each girl.  

Wellspring International identified this project through the Ratanak Foundation in Vancouver, British Columbia.  It was founded in 1996 by a 22-year veteran of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Brian McConaghy.  Under his leadership, the Canadian police conducted monumental investigation regarding a sex offender arrested for his crimes in Cambodia.  Receiving international attention and coverage on 20/20, the offender was brought to justice under Canada’s first ever sex tourism conviction.  Mr. McConaghy was committed to continued involvement on behalf of the thousands of remaining victims in Cambodia and launched The Ratanak Foundation to serve the people of Cambodia by partnering with like-minded organizations to provide healthcare, shelter, literacy, and agricultural development.   

Partnering together with Ratanak Foundation, Wellspring International is committed to providing funding for weekly professional therapy sessions at the NewSong Center for 34 girls rescued from sex slavery in the brothels of Cambodia