Every year on World Trafficking Day (July 30), we pause to remember the millions of lives affected by human trafficking—especially children and adolescents who are often the most vulnerable. At ADRA International, our mission is rooted in justice, compassion, and love. These values guide our efforts to protect, support, and restore the lives of those at risk of exploitation, including migrant children crossing dangerous borders alone.

One such story is that of Emily Valentina Lores Carrasquel, a 12-year-old Venezuelan girl whose life was dramatically altered by a moment of misplaced trust—but who found safety and hope again through ADRA’s care.

A Journey Fueled by Love—and Misinformation

Emily had lived in Colombia with her family for six years after fleeing economic instability in Venezuela. One day, a friend persuaded her to escape to Peru, saying, “If you love me, you’ll come.” Emily went.

Once in Peru, Emily found herself isolated and unsupported. Her friend and her friend’s boyfriend worked while Emily stayed alone, wandering beaches and streets. Eventually, tensions rose, and Emily was left entirely on her own.

With no resources or safe contacts, she tried to reach Ecuador. At the border, she met Venezuelans who pointed her toward ADRA’s Comprehensive Care Space in Huaquillas.

A Safe Space in the Midst of Crisis

At ADRA, Emily was welcomed with open arms. Our staff offered her more than just food and shelter—they provided her with medical care, emotional support, and, most importantly, safety.

“They received me well and today I feel fine… Iliana and Michel treat me well. They take me to the doctor when I feel bad, give me food, and a safe place to sleep,” Emily shared.

Beyond meeting immediate needs, ADRA worked to reunite Emily with her mother, Sanyelis, in Colombia. After weeks of coordination and communication, that long-awaited reunion happened.

“To see Emily again after 2–3 months... I’m just so grateful to ADRA,” said Sanyelis. “They helped me get here, they never lost contact, and they took such good care of my daughter. May God bless them.”

Preventing Trafficking Through Awareness and Protection

ADRA’s work goes far beyond emergency response. As part of our safeguarding efforts, we empower communities to recognize, prevent, and respond to trafficking risks—especially for women, children, and migrants.

“At ADRA, we raise awareness in communities and amongst staff to make sure they know how to identify and prevent trafficking of people,” says Beryl Hartmann, director of Safeguarding for ADRA International. “This is part of our wholistic approach to ensuring the safety of everyone we work with,” says Hartmann. “Our teams are driven by justice, guided by compassion, and sustained through love, help reunite families, protect the displaced, and offer a way forward when all seems lost.”

Emily’s story is just one example of the kind of impact this approach can have.

A Message to Other Young People

Emily now has a message for other youth who may feel pressured to run or leave home:

“Never leave your house without your mother’s permission. There are many dangers—kidnappings, rapes, and more. It’s better to travel with your family.”

You Can Help Fight Human Trafficking

On this World Trafficking Day, you can be part of this life-saving work.

· Pray for vulnerable children

· Support ADRA’s trafficking response and safeguarding initiatives

· Share stories like Emily’s to raise awareness

Because every child deserves to be safe. Every mother deserves to hold her child again and every person deserves to live free.

This press release was provided by ADRA International. Join the ANN WhatsApp Channel for the latest Adventist news.