I have some exciting news to share! On October 9th-16th, I will be traveling to the Dominican Republic to further my education and gain hands-on experience in helping survivors of sex trafficking. This opportunity is a vital step in my journey toward becoming a therapist for survivors, a passion that has driven my studies in the Master of Social Work Program.

While abroad, I will be working with and learning from organizations that do trafficking prevention, intervention, and aftercare. My school has made all of the arrangements and we will be partnering with two specific non-profit organizations in the Dominican Republic:

https://newhopegirls.com/

"Our average age at intake is 8 years old but we have girls ages 2-20 in our care. Each girl comes to us from dark and difficult places and it is our privilege to walk with each one in hope & healing. We help them grab onto their untouchable worth."

https://www.mercyworkshop.com/

"Mercy Workshop provides women in the Dominican Republic with a life of dignity through Christ-driven support, job skills training, educational opportunities, counseling, and crisis prevention."

Further details about my upcoming trip can be found here.

Here is a snapshot of what all donations will be going towards:

Cost of trip: $2,250 (Not including flights from ATL to RIC or tuition)

Included: in-country meals & transportation, Roundtrip flights from RIC <--> D.R., hotel, and a day of self-care on the beach of a Caribbean Island – learn to snorkel

Not Included: Flights from ATL <--> RIC, Tuition, Airport Food, Souvenirs, Toiletries, Travel Accessories

If you feel moved to support this mission, there are several ways to contribute. You can donate directly via the provided link, purchase items from my Amazon Wishlist, or simply send your love and prayers to those we will be serving. Every bit of help brings us closer to ending modern-day slavery. I am incredibly grateful for any support you can offer, and I can't wait to share the impact of this journey with you all. Together, we are making a difference. Thank you for being part of this mission!

For those who have asked, I am accepting Venmo payments at @LeahT27

Outline of Completed and Upcoming Payments:

Tuition	$1,695	ASAP	PAID
CQ Assessment	$29.00	Due 2 Weeks After Acceptance	PAID
Background Check	$27.00	Due 2 Weeks After Acceptance	PAID
Deposit	$350.00	Due 2 Weeks After Acceptance	PAID
Payment 1	$614.00	Due 7/1/2024	PAID
Payment 2	$615.00	Due 8/1/2024
Final Payment	$615.00	Due 9/1/2024
Flights (ATL - RIC and RIC - ATL)	$279	ASAP
TOTAL	$4,224	$1,509 left to pay	$2,715 PAID

Dominican Republic Mission Trip

Helping Survivors of Sex Trafficking