By Dr. Patrick Nave “Doc”
I was sitting across from this amazing young person who had come from the world of human trafficking. They were telling me that at times they only had one teaspoon of peanut butter to eat for a meal and that they just learned to NOT be hungry.
I thought about what it must have been like. I can remember when I was younger, and I was homeless on the streets in Miami and what it felt like when one meal passed. No food. Another meal passed. No food. You just get used to going without and you do whatever it is that you can do to survive.
At Bikers Against Trafficking, we do not believe in “posterizing” those we help, assist or walk alongside. We know that each person has a story and many of the stories are tragic, overwhelming and gut-wrenching. One of the reasons Rainey and I tell our stories is so that others do not have to do so. We don’t want people labeled as “survivors of human trafficking.” We just want them to be normal, whatever that means, and we want to give them an opportunity to share if they feel they want to, but no one has to know…if they so choose. We don’t help people because we want their stories. We help people because we want to be the hands and feet of Jesus.
Over the past years, the kids and young adults we help have grown. I wish I could introduce you to the incredible kids, teens and adults we work with around the United States. It is humbling. It is an honor. BUT it is of course also hard work and requires dedication and sacrifice. BAT is made up of volunteers and we are so appreciative to all who give so much. Our Board is a working board and each one sacrifices and gives all they have. Our members, our Chapters…sacrifice and are determined to make a difference.
We are constantly facing challenges but somehow…God gets us through. We continue to give all that we have and whether it is providing food, housing, clinical trauma counseling or any other need (such as getting out) … we could not continue to do what we do without your sacrificial giving and prayers. Each dollar is so appreciated and makes such a difference. We don’t simply talk about what we WANT to do…we do.
To learn more about us check out our Facebook page: BikersAgainstTraffickingFL or the Chapters pages. They are all listed at our main website BikersAgainstTrafficking.org
There is also a donation link on the main website.
HURRICANE UPDATE:
Many of our AMF homes have suffered damage from the hurricane, leaving families and youth in urgent need of food and supplies. We would be incredibly grateful for any donations of nonperishable items and household goods. Your support, in any form, would mean a great deal to us. Above all, we would deeply appreciate your prayers during this challenging time. If you’re able to help, we welcome donations at 1349 International Pkwy S, Ste 2421, Lake Mary, Fl 32746, or contact Rainey via text 407-860-9849.
https://www.facebook.com/Rainey.Cannavino
