It’s estimated that there are 80,000 youth survivors of sex trafficking in Texas. That’s why, in 2020, we launched our Youth Advocacy program.
Our team operates a 24/7 crisis hotline for trafficked youth ages 0-24. Our Advocates respond when youth are in crisis and walk alongside them throughout the recovery process. Advocates provide emotional support, assist youth in navigating community programs and services, and ensure that their voices are heard.
We collaborate with law enforcement, child welfare organizations, juvenile justice programs, and various service providers to ensure that the response to an identified survivor is child-centered, trauma-informed, and coordinated with the youth’s best interests at heart.
So far, our team has served 350 child and youth survivors. Today, we want to share the stories of two young women (names changed for privacy) who found connection, safety, and support through our Youth Advocacy program as they worked to reclaim their futures:
Finding the Courage to Trust Again – Jenelle, 20
“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” — John 1:5
When law enforcement completed a local operation to recover survivors of trafficking in Houston, they introduced Jenelle*, just 20 years old, to an on-site Youth Advocate from The Landing. She was frightened and unsure of what would come next, but that moment marked the beginning of her journey from fear toward hope.
For many young survivors like Jenelle, the first steps after recovery are filled with uncertainty. They’re not just seeking safety; they’re searching for someone they can trust. That’s where The Landing steps in; Jenelle’s advocate offered immediate emotional support and a calm, steady presence along with a warm meal and fresh clothing. There were no expectations—just someone willing to listen and help her navigate the chaos. Together, they began building a plan to stabilize her situation and connect her with essential resources, including food, immediate shelter, and crisis counseling.
Within weeks, Jenelle began making remarkable progress. With her advocate’s guidance, she secured a job, received rental assistance, and completed financial literacy coaching to strengthen her budgeting and money management skills. Each step forward reflected not only her courage, but the light of Christ shining through those who came alongside her in love.
Today, Jenelle has moved from fear and instability to confidence and security. Her journey reminds us that healing begins when people are met with compassion, consistency, and the hope that comes from God’s unwavering love.
Finding Her Light & Rewriting Her Future – Cameron, 18
“You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden.
Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” — Matthew 5:14-16 ESV
Cameron* didn’t know what healing could look like after surviving familial trafficking. The trauma had left her feeling powerless, isolated, and unsure of where to turn. Each day was a struggle to feel safe, to trust again, and to imagine a future beyond survival.
She first connected with The Landing’s Youth Advocacy Program through a referral. At the time, she was guarded, understandably so. So many systems had failed her, and promises of help had often come with judgment or conditions she couldn’t meet. But something about the way The Landing approached her felt different. There was no pressure—just a commitment to walk alongside her, at her pace.
Cameron began working with an advocate who listened deeply and without assumptions. Through the support of her advocate and The Landing’s counselor, she started to feel seen—not just as a survivor, but as a whole person with strength, dreams, and the capacity to build a life on her own terms.
With help from her advocate, Cameron set short- and long-term goals. She secured stable housing, re-enrolled in high school, and accessed wraparound services that supported her healing. It wasn’t easy; she balanced part-time work, counseling sessions, and an accelerated high school diploma program. But she showed up, repeatedly, with determination.
Her hard work paid off. Cameron was accepted into both San Jacinto College and Houston Community College—a milestone that marked her growing independence and self-sufficiency. She is now pursuing a degree in social services, inspired by her lived experience and the advocates who never gave up on her.
We are so grateful that Jenelle and Cameron trusted our team to provide a safe space for healing and rebuilding to occur. Learn more about our Youth Advocacy program here.
Our theme as we close out 2025 is A Season to Shine, and we wanted to share these stories because they both remind us of the biblical call to light the way for our neighbors in need.
Jenelle’s story reflects the truth of John 1:5—light always overcomes the darkness. As the body of Christ, we’re called to reflect that same light so others may find their way home. Cameron’s story exemplifies the message of Matthew 5:16: “Let your light shine before others.”
In 2026, we anticipate serving more than 700 survivors. But we can’t do it without your support. In this Season to Shine, will you help us shine God’s light and illuminate a path of hope and healing for human trafficking survivors here in Houston? As The Landing celebrates 10 years of service, please donate before December 31st to help us reach our $300,000 year-end goal so we can start our next decade of impact stronger than ever.
