Survivor Stories from Mumbai, India
We are delighted to welcome you to our website, dedicated to sharing the inspiring stories of resilience and triumph of girls who have been freed from the clutches of human trafficking. Kids Helping Kids, a 100% student-run non-profit, proudly presents these narratives of courage and strength. Each biography on this page features the remarkable journey of a survivor, highlighting not only the challenges they faced but also the incredible transformations they've undergone since reclaiming their freedom. We've achieved this by supporting the organization called Set Beautiful Free. Through their stories, we aim to raise awareness about the impact of human trafficking and celebrate the indomitable spirit of those who have overcome it. Join us in spreading hope, compassion, and support as we strive to make a positive difference in the lives of these extraordinary individuals. Together, let's build a future where every child is free to dream and thrive.
TANISHA
Tanisha was rescued at the age of 9. She was living in Mumbai’s slums when her mother married into the Red Light District. Her new grandmother was trafficked and still worked in the Red Light. Eventually, her step father passed away leaving Tanisha’s mother with no income. She started working as a maid but would be gone all day leaving Tanisha, home alone. The situation grew increasingly more dangerous for Tanisha as she was either to stay home alone as a young child or go live with her grandmother in the Red Light District. One day Tanisha’s grandmother contacted the SBF outreach team for help. She knew that if she didn't get Tanisha out of the area she would be forced into the prostitution. The situation would only get more dangerous the older Tanisha was. Tanisha’s been with SBF for 8 years. She is outgoing, and active in school and within the rescue home. She excels in dancing and soccer. She will be graduating highschool in May 2024 and will pursue a degree in marketing. It takes a team to rescue women and children. Our outreach team is in the Red Lights Districts throughout Mumbai everyday. They build lasting relationships with the women and Tanisha’s grandmother is a perfect example of this. She knew that SBF would help her granddaughter. And because of this relationship a young woman is free and has a future.
RONI
Roni was born into a Red Light District on the outskirts of Mumbai. Her mother was tricked and coerced at a young age and forced into the flesh trade. Her mother had her just a few years after being in the Red Light District. She knew she did not want this for her daughter and she knew she had to get her out quickly before traffickers would take notice. Roni’s mother searched for places that would take her daughter and found SBF. Roni has been with SBF for 1.5 years. Roni is kind, outgoing, and loves to serve others. She is friendly and involved in her school activities. She is currently in 7th grade and looking forward to having a future with choice and opportunity.
CHANDI
Chandi was rescued in November 2023. Chandi’s mother, like so many before her, was sold and tricked into forced prostitution. After a few years in the Red Light District Chandi's mother met a man and had two children with him. However, this man was married and had another family and he tricked her into supporting them as well. The situation just grew harder and even more dangerous for Chandi. Chandi started living with this other family while her mother worked every night. The situation was desperate now as men were starting to approach her. Chandi's mom contacted SBF to get her out of the Red Light area. Chandi has been living at our Children's Home for a little over a month. She is still getting used to her new surroundings. Chandi is enjoying school and wants to become a teacher someday. We are grateful for her life and that she is safe. Her future is safe and hopeful.
LAKSHITA
Lakshita is only 6 years old and has been living in our Childrens Home for 7 months. The story of her mothers survival is heartbreaking but the reality for some many mothers in the Red Light Districts throughout India. Lakshita’s mother Beena was born in Kolkotta and had big dreams and plans for her life. She dreamed of moving to Mumbai because of the endless opportunities all of her friends talked about. When she moved to Mumbai she quickly realized she had no work, education, or experience to get any job. She ended up in the Red Light area being forced to work in order to survive. An even darker reality hit when she was sold by her “madam” for $6,000 to a man whom she had to marry. She was forced to get married and then to move to another state. Being married was a horrible experience as she was abused, and neglected by her husband. Beena eventually became pregnant and gave birth to Lakshita. The situation only became worse when Lakshita endured a hard fall and the father was unwilling to help in any way. Beena decided that she needed to escape from this marriage. Once escaping Beena and her toddler moved back to Mumbai and unable to find work Beena had to go back to the Red Light District to provide for her daughter. Beena was desperate to provide a better life and future for her daughter. One day Beena encountered the SBF outreach team. They shared hope and how they could help rescue, educate, and provide for her daughter. Beena made the painful decision to send Lakshita to SBF, ultimately saving her daughter. Lakshita has been with SBF since June 2023. She is energetic and happy. She likes that the Children's Home has a big living room to play in. She wants to be a soldier so she can protect the country when she grows up.