As a new school year is about to begin in much of the world, we’re reflecting on the powerful role education plays in breaking cycles of exploitation and poverty. And one story that reminds us why this work matters so deeply is about a young boy named Joshua*.
When his mother, Susan*, was rescued from human trafficking in South Sudan, she carried the weight of unthinkable trauma — and the hope of a better future for her children.
She had been held in a government barracks and abused as a sex slave by soldiers. But in 2017, she was rescued and found refuge at Hope for South Sudan (HFSS), our partners along the border of Uganda.
In LUV’s network, she was offered a safe space to heal, empowered with employment within our safe housing program, and an opportunity for her children to attend our elementary school.
With the income she earned, Susan began to rebuild her life — and rewrite her story.
For the first time, her children, including Joshua, had consistent access to education, meals, safety, and a community that truly cared.
And that was only the beginning.
In 2020, Susan took a bold step forward. Using her savings, she started a small restaurant in a nearby town. Today, her business is thriving — and Joshua and his siblings continue to pursue their education with passion and joy.
Because of people like you, one woman’s rescue and empowerment became a family’s transformation.
Joshua is now age 19 and a sophomore in high school. He dreams of a future filled with hope — one where he, too, can give back to his community.
When you give monthly, you provide steady support to help students like Joshua receive an education.
*Our commitment is to keep children and survivors safe online, so Susan and Joshua’s names were changed to protect their identity.
Sign-up for LUV’s Monthly Prayer Emails
Sign up for our monthly prayer emails and take an active role in transforming lives through prayer. Sent on the first Wednesday of each month, they include reflections, prayer points, and real-time updates from the field.