When Nyssa thinks about who she was before entering Catholic Charities’ DIGNITY (Developing Individual Growth and New Independence Through Yourself) Diversion program, she describes herself simply.
“I’m a mom. I just wanted to be loved.”
Growing up without feeling truly loved left Nyssa searching for connection and a way out. She eventually experienced sex trafficking and abuse, including severe violence at the hands of her trafficker. At the time, Nyssa didn’t see a clear path to safety.
“I was okay with just getting by,” she said. “I thought I was stuck.”
Planting a Seed
When Nyssa entered DIGNITY, something slowly began to change. There wasn’t one dramatic moment. Instead, hope grew through conversations, relationships and hearing from women who had survived similar experiences.
“The seed was planted at Diversion,” Nyssa said. “I realized there was a way out.”
Her case manager, Lindsay, encouraged Nyssa to engage with the program and understand the support available to her. The program’s speakers also made an impression. Hearing from women who had experienced exploitation and gone on to build meaningful lives showed Nyssa that change was possible.
The DIGNITY environment also gave Nyssa permission not to have everything figured out. It was a place that let women know “that it’s okay to not know where you are going, or to be scared,” she said.
Finding a Way Forward
Completing DIGNITY did not mean every challenge disappeared. Nyssa still needed to find a safe and sustainable way forward.
Sometime after graduating from the program, Nyssa unexpectedly returned to the Diversion office. Staff had believed she was in Nevada, but Nyssa wanted to check in and meet with Lindsay.
During that visit, Nyssa applied for and was accepted into Starfish Place, a transitional housing program for women who have experienced trafficking and their children.
Looking back, Nyssa credits DIGNITY with helping her recognize that life beyond trafficking was possible.
“It definitely planted the seed and helped water it along the way!” she said. “I don’t think I’d be out of the lifestyle without the program!”
Building a Life Beyond Trafficking
Today, Nyssa’s life looks very different. She has her own home and is a dedicated mother to her two children. She began working for a bank and is now a manager.
For Nyssa, healing means continuing to move forward through the challenges of finances, parenting and everyday life while learning “to love myself and not be so judgmental of myself.”
Turning Her Experience Into Hope for Others
Nyssa’s connection with Catholic Charities did not end when she completed DIGNITY. She continues to stay in touch with Lindsay, and the support and connections she found have inspired her to help others.
Today, Nyssa volunteers at anti-trafficking events. Her experiences have also changed the way she sees people who are struggling and helped her better understand trauma, mental health and the resources available to survivors.
The woman who once believed she was stuck is now thinking about the future. Her goals are deeply personal: being a good mom, growing in faith and building lasting stability.
Nyssa knows the journey forward can be difficult, but she also knows change is possible.
