April Showers
In the bible, oftentimes rain is associated with blessing, and April truly felt like a season of God’s blessed rain in Quito, Ecuador
Introducing Amy*
I met Amy* this month during one of our weekly outreach visits. From the moment we approached her, I could sense her apprehension. She kept her eyes low and her body language guarded—clearly unsure of who we were or what we wanted. But slowly, as her coworkers told her who we were, she began to engage with us.
As part of our protocol, we asked for her first and last name and a phone number we could reach her at. She hesitated, staring down at the ground. The silence lingered for a few seconds before one of my teammates kindly repeated the question. That’s when Amy softly asked, “Do you need my real name, or can I give you my working name?”
That moment stopped me in my tracks.
In that one question, I felt the weight of what so many women in exploitation carry every day. This work—the kind that strips a person of their identity—exacts a heavy toll. Not just physically or spiritually, but emotionally and psychologically. The trauma doesn’t end with the job; it seeps into the way they see themselves, the way they relate to others, and how safe they feel being known.
For many of these women, survival means living under a false name, playing a role they never chose, day in and day out. When you're forced to bury your real name—your first marker of identity—it becomes almost impossible to believe you're worthy of love, or that anyone could truly know you, not just the version the world demands you to be.
Moments like this are humbling reminders of why we show up every week. It's not just about offering resources or exit strategies—it's about restoring identity in God, reminding each woman that she is seen, known, and deeply valued for who she truly is.
*Name changed for protection
Super Ofertón
Immediately following our two vision clinics, the End Slavery team jumped into one of our favorite community events of the year—our Super Ofertón. This is a special sale similar to a North American garage sale. Throughout the year, we collect gently used clothing and household items, which are then sold for just 10¢ to $3! But this event isn’t about fundraising—it's about empowerment.
Rather than receiving donations, the women we serve are given the dignity of choice. They get to shop, select items that reflect their personal tastes, and purchase them with their own money. This simple act of autonomy fosters confidence, self-worth, and a renewed sense of belonging.
It is so fun to see the women try on new clothes and see the smiles that light up their faces. Many women bring along their children or family members, who often get to pick out a special toy or outfit —sometimes for the very first time in their life.
Events like the Super Ofertón remind us that restoring dignity doesn’t always require big gestures—sometimes, it starts with something as small as letting someone choose for themselves.
April Busy-ness
April was such a busy, fun, full month. Between our regular outreach work as well as our special events, the month was already full. But on top of that, I was able to squeeze in some meaningful travel. Early in the month, I visited a small village outside Otavalo to help film a video for a partner ministry that's raising funds to expand their church building. Not long after, I made a quick trip back to the States to celebrate a dear friend’s wedding—a weekend full of love, laughter, and sweet reunions. After returning to Ecuador, I traveled to Ventanas to spend time with my boyfriend’s family, then came back to Quito just in time to host friends for a weekend at my apartment.
This month has been crazy busy, but so fulfilling. I love my life here. I’m grateful for the opportunities, the connections, and the beautiful, busy rhythm of life here. I truly love the work I get to do and the community I’ve been blessed to build.
Thank you, God, for planting me here—right where I’m meant to be.
Answered Prayers
• The Lord has brought LOTS of rain and thus having power 24/7 again
• Seeing breakthroughs in the lives of our Amadas and seeing the walls of anger and resentment come down (as well as seeing more openness to the Word)
• Being able to spend time with friends and family during this season
• The Lord’s provision for a new apartment for me that is perfect in every way!
• Another Amada has left prostitution and went to Chile to restart her life
• Our three recent events all went really well!
• Safe travel to and from the States as well as within Ecuador
• The elections went well! The capitalist candidate won, which could have resulted in unrest or riots, however, it ended up being relatively peaceful!
• My new coworker is feeling much better and has officially started working at ESE!
Prayer Requests
• For our Amada C* who went to Chile, that she would find a job and community in her new home
For our Amada I* who is looking for a job so she can leave prostitution, but is facing a lot of discrimination for her age
• For our Amadas in general, that they would search for and find new job opportunities (this is difficult in Ecuador’s economy)
• For our upcoming women’s conference on June 4th
• For our Amada Amy* that she would be able to trust our organization and receive aid that helps her leave prostitution
• For the relationship between our team and the board