How to Support Sex Workers in Ending Their Silent Lament
Rahab Ministry serves a deeply specific and often overlooked group: sex workers. Nearly every woman who seeks help carries the trauma of past sexual abuse. Through the care, companionship, and support of Rahab Ministry staff, many have come to know God, experienced life transformation, and ultimately left the sex trade to begin a new chapter.
“Over the years, we’ve discovered a common thread among the women we serve—most have experienced sexual abuse,” Joanna explains. “Whether the perpetrator was a family member, boyfriend, or stranger, nearly every woman carries this pain. Those who’ve endured long-term abuse often feel their bodies have no value.”
Joanna adds that while sexual trauma is a major factor, other circumstances also lead women into the sex trade. “Some young women are deceived due to mental illness; some new immigrants, unable to find work, are forced into sex work under financial pressure.”
She notes that contrary to popular belief, not all sex workers are controlled by criminal gangs. While some are indeed trafficked or manipulated by exploitative partners—known locally as guyees (men who live off women)—others continue in the trade even after escaping such control, simply to survive.
When a woman takes that courageous first step, Rahab Ministry staff meet with her in person, listening attentively to her background and life story while gently exploring her reasons for seeking change. As part of this process, they also inquire about factors such as substance use, legal challenges, and refugee or immigration status—seeking to understand her circumstances holistically in order to provide the most appropriate and compassionate support.
Carol
[HEADERM]Case 1: From Debt and the Sex Trade to Campus and Dreams
Lured by a “Receptionist” Job Ad[/HEADERM]
Carol shared a story from 2024: during a Christmas outreach to massage parlors, the team left behind gospel flyers and contact information. One woman saw the flyer and courageously sent an email asking for help—but for unknown reasons, received no reply. Thankfully, she didn’t give up and sent another message. This time, the team responded immediately and arranged a meeting.
She had come to Canada after a painful fallout with her parents, hoping to escape her past. Drawn by a job ad for a “receptionist,” she arrived only to discover the employer ran a massage parlor. With no other means of survival, she was pulled into the sex trade. Later, mounting debt forced her to stay in the industry just to repay what she owed.
The team also provided essential support—food, daily necessities, phone bills, and even rent-free housing when she faced eviction. They offered counseling to help her heal from past trauma.
Surprisingly, she didn’t rush to find a new job. Instead, she chose to return to school, carrying with her a renewed sense of hope. Staff accompanied her to weekly life coaching sessions, and through devotionals and Bible reading, she gradually found peace. Her long-standing insomnia also began to improve.
With help from Rahab Ministry, she applied for Ontario’s student aid program (OSAP) and other government grants, successfully completing her first year of college. She’s set to graduate next year. To support her spiritual growth amid her busy studies, the team encouraged her to join the ministry’s Alpha Course and continues to pray for her.
Joanna
[HEADERM]Case 2: The Night She Wept—A Promise to Leave the Sex Trade
Alone in Canada[/HEADERM]
Joanna shared another unforgettable story. Over a decade ago, she met a young woman in her twenties who had been in the sex trade for years and longed to leave. One day, while browsing online, the woman came across Rahab Ministry’s ad and reached out.
She had been assaulted at age 19, which shattered her confidence and led her to abandon her dream of attending university. Her family had moved to Europe, leaving her alone in Canada. Though she wanted to leave the industry, she constantly struggled with fear and uncertainty. Rahab staff supported her practically and emotionally, encouraging her to find new work. But unable to secure a job, she eventually returned to sex work.
“One night, I suddenly received a call from her,” Joanna recalled. “Her boss had taken her and several other women to a casino, but as soon as they arrived, they were robbed of all their money. The boss ignored them. Thankfully, the thieves didn’t take her phone, so she was able to call me for help.”
Joanna rushed to pick her up and took her out for a meal. Overwhelmed, the woman broke down in tears, feeling utterly alone and uncared for. Joanna gave her some money, and through sobs, she said, ‘I’ll never do this work again!’ That moment left a deep impression on Joanna.
She later interned with Rahab Ministry and another Christian organization. After her father passed away last year, she moved to the UK to reunite with her mother. Today, she works at a local shelter, serving homeless youth and fulfilling her desire to help others. She even sent a heartfelt message and recent photo to thank the team for their support.
“This kind of response is incredibly precious,” Joanna said emotionally. “It’s not only our greatest motivation to continue this ministry—it reminds us that the true power to transform lives comes from God.”
Looking ahead, the team hopes to launch a Mobile Community Hub—bringing services directly to sex workers rather than waiting for them to reach out. This initiative aims to meet their needs more personally and effectively.
Helena Lee
