Raising Hope for Healing Survivors

Julián had always dreamed of becoming a fireman so at 11 years old he went with his step-father to see if there was a way that he could become involved at his local volunteer fire station. The fire chief decided to let Julián observe the work and trainings that the firemen did at the station but warned that he was too young to go out on emergency calls. Julián was excited about this new opportunity to learn more about his dream job. One evening while Julián was at the station there was an emergency call and all of the firemen were called out to the scene except for the operator who stayed back with Julian. The operator took advantage of this time alone with Julián and forced him to have oral sex with him, raped him and then threatened to kill Julián's mother or hurt his family if he told anyone. This happened several times and on the third occasion Julián was able to defend himself and escape and this time he told his mother and step-father what had happened to him.

Julián was greatly affected by these terrible events and came to the psychologist at the GOD'S CHILD Project in Guatemala seeking help. Our psychologist immediately began to provide him with the support that he needed to overcome the trauma he had suffered and our lawyer stepped in to help Julián and his mother file a suit against his aggressor. We are currently awaiting the sentencing of the operator and continue to support Julián through counseling.

Julián's dreams of becoming a fireman were cut short however he still dreams of helping, healing and saving others. Through our legal and psychological support ITEMP is encouraging Julián to keep fighting and to reach for his dreams. 

Please help us continue to support Julián and other victims of abuse and human trafficking. Your donation, no matter the size, will make a big difference in the life of a child who is suffering from abuse, exploitation or human trafficking.  

With gratitude,

Links:

• ITEMP website
• The GOD'S CHILD Project website