OK, it's time to pump up a cause I believe strongly in, the elimination of human trafficking. DBers, are you looking for a Christmas gift that is more than just a gift? Check out www.Somaly.org and click on the Survivor Empowerment Store. The Somaly Mam Foundation is an organization set up to support the work of it's founder, Somaly Mam, She is herself a survivor of the Cambodian brothels who has dedicated her life to rescuing young women who have been sold into prostitution by family, friends or other people they trusted. At 12 years old she was sold by her grandfather to a brothel and brutalized by up to twenty men a day for ten years. She finally escaped after witnessing the murder of her best friend by a pimp for refusing to service a "customer". Her organization has now rescued, housed, supported and re-trained approximately 4,000 young women. In Cambodia 2,000 young women a month are sold into prostitution and worldwide between 1 to 2 million children will suffer a similar fate in this coming year. The items sold at the Survivor Empowerment Store are items like silk scarves, bracelets, necklaces etc. which are largely handmade by these rescued women (and designated as Survivor made). So, take a look! Hmm, to give a beautiful silk scarf handmade by a brave young lady starting a new life or a machine made, designer scarf from a mall....I know which one I chose!!! (the items are shipped from the U.S. and are in the mail the day you order them) When I look at the lives these young ladies have been forced to live, my problems just seem so insignificant! It's such a blessing to see organizations such as Somaly Mam's working to bring joy and dignity back into their lives. Btw, last Saturday Somaly Mam was also featured in a segment on America's Most Wanted for her work. Did anyone happen to see it?
