Sara was one girl. One survivor. But SARA represents all of the girls we aim to help.
Our story began in 2014 when I felt the Lord nudging me to help survivors of human trafficking in Houston, Texas. That summer, I volunteered with a local organization, researching the realities of trafficking. By the end of the project, I knew I couldn’t return to life as usual—I had to do more.
A friend connected me to a safe home, where I spent time each week hanging out with the girls, watching movies, helping with sewing classes, and mentoring them. I saw firsthand their struggles with trauma, sleepless nights, and the weight of their pasts.
Later that year, I started using essential oils for my family. I was a skeptic at first but quickly saw their healing potential. As I learned more, I heard testimonies of oils helping people with emotional release from trauma. The Holy Spirit nudged me again—this time to offer oils to the girls during counseling and at night.
Initially hesitant, I feared being seen as “crazy” for suggesting something so unconventional. But after months of feeling that pull, I finally reached out, and it turned out the staff at the safe home had been praying for someone to donate essential oils! My husband and I started donating, but we quickly realized the need was greater than we could provide.
That’s when I launched an online shop selling ethically made, fair trade products, many made by survivors. Profits would go towards purchasing oils for the girls. I wanted people to have something tangible while knowing their purchase was making a difference.
The nonprofit became ReleaseSARA—“Release” for the freedom these girls seek, both physically and emotionally, and “SARA” for those who have been Sexually Abused and/or Ritually Abused. Sara was the first survivor to open up to me about her struggles, but her story reflects so many others.
Sara was one girl. One survivor. But SARA represents all of the girls we aim to help.
As we grew and experienced more, we saw a deeper need for safe, supportive housing that truly met survivors where they were. Traditional safe homes often have limitations that prevent many survivors—especially those who are pregnant, have children in custody, or rely on support pets—from getting the help they need. In response, we launched SARA’s Roots, an innovative program offering survivors a unique path to healing and independence.
Through SARA’s Roots, survivors live independently in their own tiny homes, receive individualized care plans and goal-setting support, and are welcomed along with their children and pets. This tailored approach provides the wraparound care survivors need to thrive, with help from our trusted local partners.
Now, in 2024, SARA’s Roots stands as a beacon of hope, breaking the mold of traditional residential care and offering a new beginning for survivors.
Will you join us in this mission to help survivors RELEASE, ROOT, AND RESTORE?
-Lauren