Dear friends,
Today, we have the tremendous opportunity to hear directly from a JusticeMatters client named Marisol*. In her letter, Marisol shares about her experience surviving human trafficking and the ways that JusticeMatters’ legal representation opened up a world of possibilities for her and her children. We are in awe of Marisol’s courage, determination, and joy as she tells her story and continues to help her family flourish.
Please join us in celebrating Marisol’s journey and supporting the many other clients who are working to rebuild their lives.
Warmly,
The JusticeMatters Team
“I am no longer defined by what happened to me. I am a survivor, a mother, and someone who now has hope for the future.”
Dear JusticeMatters’ Community,
My name is Marisol, and at 14 years old, I was homeless, alone, and vulnerable. During that time, I became a victim of human trafficking. I was taken advantage of by adults who didn’t care whether I had food to eat or whether I was safe. They controlled me with drugs and fear, leaving me feeling trapped. I wasn’t even free to leave the house except to use the bathroom.
The trauma I experienced changed my life. At just 14 years old, I was diagnosed with PTSD. Even today, seeing the people who hurt me or simply driving near that house brings back painful memories.
When I felt like there was no hope, Justice Matters stepped in. They gave me something I desperately needed: safety, support, and people who believed in me. Through their services, I received therapy and the resources I needed to begin healing from the trauma I had endured.
“Their compassion, advocacy, and unwavering support changed the course of my life. They didn’t just help one survivor—they helped create a future for my family.”
Justice Matters also helped me obtain a human trafficking visa when I was 14. That support eventually allowed me to receive my green card, giving me security, stability, and the opportunity to build a future I never thought was possible. Because of their advocacy, I have been able to access medical care, return to my birthplace in Mexico without fear or barriers, and move forward with confidence and hope.
Today, I am 24 years old and the proud mother of two beautiful daughters. Every day, I work to give them the safe, loving childhood that I never had. I strive to protect them from experiencing the pain and trauma I endured as a child.
I truly don’t know where I would be without Justice Matters. Their compassion, advocacy, and unwavering support changed the course of my life. They didn’t just help one survivor—they helped create a future for my family.
Please consider supporting Justice Matters so they can continue helping survivors like me. Your generosity gives people who have experienced unimaginable trauma the chance to heal, rebuild, and believe in a better future. Because of Justice Matters, I am no longer defined by what happened to me. I am a survivor, a mother, and someone who now has hope for the future. I will always be grateful for everything they have done for me and my family.
With thanks,
Marisol
*Name changed to protect client’s identity