Author: Gurleen Basra, 2026 Ideas Inspire Fellow

Fleeing to Safety  

In 2024, Brenda came to the United States seeking safety after leaving an abusive relationship. She endured manipulation, exploitation and coercion – experiences she describes as “un infierno” (a hell). Despite the fear and uncertainty, she faced, Brenda chose to leave because she wanted to protect her family and build a life free from violence.  

Although arriving in the United States represented the possibility of a fresh start, it also brought a new set of challenges. When Brenda arrived, she was physically and emotionally exhausted and had to adjust to a new language, culture, and an unfamiliar system. Without a strong support system or knowledge of available resources, she often felt isolated. Reflecting on this transition, Brenda shared, "Llegas aqui pensando que tu vida va a ser otra y luego te das cuenta que es casi este lo mismo pero de diferente manera” (I came thinking that it was going to be better, but then I realized it is almost the same, just different).  

Her first place to live in the United States was a trailer on a ranch where she was surrounded by men. Rather than feeling safe, she found herself constantly on alert and worried about her and her daughter’s security. Brenda experienced domestic violence and harassment at the trailer at the hands of the only person who was “helping” her. She sent her daughter back to her father’s place where she could be safe. After everything she had endured, having a place where she could truly relax and feel protected was essential.   

Community That Cared 

Determined to keep moving forward, Brenda connected with community organizations. A caseworker from HAVEN connected Brenda with IRC, reassuring her that she was not alone and that there were community organizations ready to support her as she rebuilt her life.  

When Brenda first met with the Anti-Trafficking team at Turlock, they focused on meeting her immediate needs, which included food, clothing, and a phone. As they continued working together, the team helped her move into a fully furnished home and provided rental assistance. Remembering the moment, when her caseworker showed Brenda her new home, she couldn’t believe that she was going to live it, and she kept asking her caseworker if it was really for her.   

The support did more than meet her basic needs. The Anti-Trafficking team continued checking in regularly, making sure she had access to the resources and encouragement she needed as she adjusted to her new life. Their ongoing support helped Brenda feel seen, valued, and connected to a community that cared about her well-being. With housing and rental assistance from the IRC, she was able to save money. When her car was damaged beyond reliable use, those savings allowed her to purchase another vehicle, helping her maintain her independence and continue moving toward her goals.  

Reclaiming Herself 

Today, Brenda says she is beginning to recognize herself again. Brenda expressed, “Ahorita es cuando yo me siento que soy otra vez yo lo que fui en mi tiempo” (Now is when I feel like myself again – like the person I used to be back in the day). 

She is deeply grateful to her caseworkers and the many community members who have stood beside her throughout her journey. Her dream is to reunite with her daughter and continue building a life where her family can live together in safety and peace.  Brenda shared one of the accomplishments she is proud of is finding strength to tell her story without fear or shame.  

“Después de la tormenta llega la calma; todo pasa” (After the storm comes the calm; everything passes) is a message that Brenda wants to share with someone who may be experiencing exploitation and is considering reaching out for help. She wants them to not lose hope or be afraid and just ask for help. Her journey reflects remarkable resilience, determination, and hope. It also serves as a reminder to the community of the importance of supporting one another and how being there for each other as a society can have a meaningful impact on an individual's life. 

What you can do

Raising awareness and learning the warning signs of trafficking helps communities identify and support survivors. If you suspect someone may be experiencing trafficking, contact:

Together, we can help survivors like Brenda move toward safety, dignity, and self-sufficiency.