Natasha was promised a job opportunity in NYC, but instead was trafficked for 2 years.

Natasha’s Story of Freedom

Natasha* lost her mother at a young age. She grew up in poverty and was physically abused by a family member. Her family was forced to flee from their war-torn country and found safety in New York. Eventually, they settled in Southwest Virginia. Chaos, trauma, and abuse were normal to Natasha; however, she never thought sexual exploitation would become part of her story. 

Natasha was just 17 years old when she and a friend had an opportunity to work in New York City. Her friend’s “landlord” offered to help them start a new life in New York City. When they arrived, however, Natasha was taken to a house where her friend was beaten and raped in front of her. When Natasha started to speak up, the “landlord” abused her. 

Natasha was told she would be forced to work as an escort; she didn’t know what that was but quickly learned. Forced to service upwards of 100 clients a night who paid to rape her, Natasha was a victim of human trafficking in New York City. After two years of being trafficked, she ran away at her first opportunity to escape.

At 19 years old, Natasha was charged with attempting to traffic a minor and served 12 months in prison. Recently, she made her way back to Street Ransom in Roanoke, VA (one of Freedom 4/24’s partners), where she received treatment, encouragement, and additional resources. Natasha is no longer a victim—but a survivor.

Run for Victims and Survivors like Natasha

On April 11, join us for the Run 4 Their Lives Virtual 5k! For $24, you can register to run or walk from wherever you are, however you want.

The Run 4 Their Lives 5k is so much more than just a 5k—it gives hope to girls like Natasha. $24 helps our partner organizations continue the work of rescue and restoration on the frontlines.

Visit our race page FAQ section to learn more about the virtual race!

*This is not her real name or picture. The survivor’s name has been changed to protect her identity.