April 2024
April 2024
A leap of faith to endless possibilities: Our Sanctuary in Cebu is Three!
2024 is the year for elections worldwide. Over 49% of the global population tune in to hear candidates' visions for society, security, commerce, and more. There’s a lot of noise, confusion, and rhetoric. But amidst the chaos lies the opportunity for change—a chance to challenge mindsets and redefine our future.
Life is so much like that.
2020 was a defining year for us all - grappling with the unknown. It was also the year we, at International Sanctuary, made a bold move. In Cebu, Philippines, we established a Sanctuary for women survivors of trafficking—a place where they could discover their worth and dignity and have a chance to rebuild their lives.
Since opening our doors in April 2021 to just 5 women, we've reached a milestone this month - marking our 3 year anniversary with 14 women earnestly rebuilding their lives.
From being in a state of control and fear, they're now able to take charge of their lives - embracing education and interpersonal skills to unlock their potential.
From drowning in debt, they're now saving towards meaningful goals - toward education, housing, and their families. And from a haze of uncertainty, they're moving forward through informed decisions, charting their own paths to success.
It seems so logical from this side of the fence, but for each woman in our Sanctuaries, this journey is a leap of faith - a transition from what they’ve always known to a place of not knowing what would happen - will they make it?
With every small step, they're placing their trust in us as we guide their growth.
So we celebrate this journey with you and thank you - our donors, volunteers, buyers of jewelry and well wishers - for believing in our mission and entrusting us to do whatever it takes for each woman’s success.
As you go about your week, here are a few photos of our Sanctuary in Cebu as a reminder of the lives you help bring hope to!
Warmly
Max Fernand
Executive Director
Change is scary but in the Sanctuary I learned to face my fear and handle my emotions.
- Rica, a woman from our Sanctuary in Cebu, Philippines
