Empower Abused and Trafficked Vietnamese Women

Ha* was only fifteen years old when she was sold to a family in China as a part of a false marriage scam. The family that Ha was sold to in China treated her worse than they'd treat a slave. Ha would work from dawn to dusk and, her husband would throw her lunch on the floor next to their dog’s bowl and that was all she would be allowed to eat all day long. Because of the lack of nutrition, she was as small as a 13-year-old girl when she first came to Hagar.  

Ha managed to escape from China a few months ago. Our local partner referred her to Hagar Vietnam as she needed comprehensive care. Hagar Vietnam took Ha to the hospital to have a check-up with her father. The doctor concluded that Ha had slow cognitive development. Her mental stage is similar to a small child. Her father shared that since Ha was 3 years old, she used to wander around aimlessly and their neighbors would bring her back home when they would find her. Growing older, sometimes she went away for one or two weeks. The community was used to her wonderings and if they found her, they would feed her then take her home. It might be one of the reasons why she was trafficked to China.  

Ha stayed in Hagar Vietnam’s Recovery Centre for a few months to receive healthcare, psychological support, and case management. It was difficult to persuade her to stay at the center for a long term because of her tendency to go out. She showed irritation and depression when she had to stay indoor for a whole day. It was also increasingly arduous to bring her back after an outing. Hs earnestly wanted to go home. 

The issue Hagar faced was her health condition and how to support her within her local community. After several health checks, the doctor diagnosed that Ha was HIV positive. Hagar and the doctor did their best to explain to her about the virus and the treatment she had to receive. Her case manager worked with Ha to prepare a detailed plan for her when she went home. With her consent, her family and local authorities were informed about her illness and trained on how to maintain medication doses, working with local clinics for Ha’s return. It was crucial to have local support and close observation of her well-being and whereabouts. We have been in frequent contact with Ha and her family.  

Tet or Lunar New Year is the biggest celebration in Vietnam and Ha was so happy to be reunited with her family for this special occasion. Her family has been busy because many friends and their neighbors came to visit every day. They brought Chung cakes, a special food for Tet, sweet and snacks to her family as gifts. Ha is well loved by everyone because of her bright personality. Hagar Vietnam is moved by all the support Ha receives from her family and community and committed to continue working with them in the future. Hagar Vietnam remember Ha fondly because of her vibrant personality and radiant smiles. 

*Ha's name was changed to protect her identity