Raised in rural Ohio, Sara Lefevers grew up free and full of joy. She adored her family, friends, even the brassy cornfields that filled her hometown, but once she learned about human trafficking, humans selling humans, everything changed.
Founded in 2018 The Nissi Project is a nonprofit organization that stands in the gap serving as an immediate care option for HT (human trafficked) verified or CSEC (commercial sexual exploitation of a child) children from the time they are rescued to the time they are ready to arrive at an aftercare facility.
Typically a survivor is verified as a human trafficking victim through an enocunter with a search and rescue team, law enforcement, or a medical professional. Once identified, there are some immediate resources, but not many and none that are sustainable. They may be given a hotel voucher for a few nights (which could possibly trigger an experience that they had). If a bed is identified, typically it is the closest, available bed, and not always the right environment, program, or situation for the individual. Thus, limiting the probability the individual will complete the program. This is where Nissi steps in, bridging the gap between a survivor’s rescue and restoration.
Currently, Sara serves as the President/CEO of The Nissi Project and is excited to be apart of opening the first short-term, immediate care home (non-disclosed location) for human trafficking survivors in the Pensacola, Florida area in 2021. From justice driven dreams to a China Cabinet for sale on marketplace, you will not believe the God ordained steps that led her to this moment.
One this episode of ‘Still With You’ I had the honor of speaking Sara and one of my favorite friends and returning voice to the show, stylist and advocate, Kelsey Hill. It was so much fun to hear their heart for mission of The Nissi Project and to announce HUGE news…
Join Sara, Kelsey, myself, and many of our friends for a fun night of music, dance, fashion, and empowering awareness. Options for attending online or in-person are available. I am beyond excited for this event and cannot wait to see you there! Click here for ticket information.
God is so good, and is providing avenues for survivors (His children) to find complete rest and restoration in Him. The Nissi Project is humbled and honored to serve God in this capacity of meeting people where they are at, and loving them like Jesus taught us to love. If you would like to know more about this program or would like to partner with Sara, Kelsey, and the team please reach out at team@thenissiproject.org.
ALERT: If you or someone you know is a victim of human trafficking, please do not wait. Call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 ( TTY: 711)|*Text 233733. Every phone conversation is confidential and assistance is available 24/7. It is better to be certain than to be sorry. Do not hesitate to call.
Links from today’s show…
Purchase ‘Fashioned for More’ tickets
Episode 31: “Leaving Footprints” an Interview with Kelsey Hill
Sara Lefevers
Kelsey Hill
Hayley Garber
Genna Barlow
Indigeaux Denim Bar & Boutique
Music, “We’ll Be Alright” by Gabrielle Grace
Ad Music, “Italy Jr.” by Underbelly
kohliebrowning.com 