Surviving Homelessness and Human Trafficking:

Crystal's Story of Hope and Faith

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Last week's episode

Season 1: Episode 3

Release Date: 11/19/24

Host: Gabby Cunningham

Guest: Crystal Limpert

40yearsurvivor@gmail.com

Show Notes:

Content Warning: This episode contains discussions of human trafficking and abuse which some listeners may find distressing.

[00:00 - 02:30] Introduction

• Host Gabby Cunningham introduces the podcast and today’s guest, Crystal.

• Brief content warning regarding discussions of human trafficking and abuse.

[02:31 - 07:00] Crystal’s Early Life and Struggles

• Crystal discusses her early exposure to faith and the promise of protection she felt at age 5.

• She introduces the impact of her marriage and subsequent financial and emotional manipulation.

• The statistic that 97% of trafficking victims know their trafficker is highlighted, emphasizing the relational aspect of trafficking.

[07:01 - 12:00] Trafficking and Homeless Experience

• Crystal shares her firsthand experience with trafficking, memory lapses, and the beginning of her homelessness in 2019.

• She discusses her husband’s involvement in her trafficking situation, though he was not her direct trafficker.

[12:01 - 17:30] Finding Faith and Foundation in Community

• Crystal talks about regaining some memories through “God's gentle intervention” and her journey of healing.

• She highlights her involvement with Zara House and her transition to a survivor advocate role.

[17:31 - 22:00] Advocacy and Ministry Work

• Introduction to "Cookies and Jesus," Crystal's ministry focused on community outreach and awareness about human trafficking.

• The importance of creating a supportive network, including her "siblings of survival" and spiritual family.

[22:01 - 29:00] Crystal’s Story of Parenthood and Healing Journey

• Details of becoming a mother at 38 and losing guardianship of her child, with her ex-in-laws currently holding custody.

• Crystal's hope and healing journey with faith and prayer as key components.

[29:01 - 35:00] Moving Forward: Transition to West Virginia

• Crystal shares her plans to move to West Virginia, where she is excited about further personal growth and supporting others.

• Her reflections on the lack of aftercare support for trafficking survivors.

[35:01 - 41:00] Community and Personal Growth

• Discussion on her social media presence as "40 year survivor," where she shares her story and testimonies.

• Crystal encourages others in similar situations to lean on faith and reach out for help.

[41:01 - 46:00] Resources and Support

• Gabby highlights the Pathways to Home initiative and the upcoming live holiday auction.

• Mention of additional resources and support systems available, including Rescue America and a free downloadable journal at www.formybonuschild.org.

[46:01 - 50:00] Closing Remarks

• Gabby underlines the significance of every individual’s story and encourages contacting Rescue America for immediate support.

• Final thoughts from Crystal on hope and resilience, with a focus on her future aspirations.

Useful Links:

• For support and more information: www.formybonuschild.org

• Details on Crystal's ministry and donation opportunities through Zara House.

• Rescue America: Resources for trafficking survivors seeking safe assistance.

Thank you for listening to "When I Was Homeless..." where we share stories of hope and resilience.

Conversation Starters

1. 1. Crystal's journey of resilience and healing through faith is truly inspiring. How has faith or spirituality played a role in your own healing process, or how do you see it impacting others in similar situations?

   2. The statistic that 97% of trafficking victims know their trafficker is alarming. What are some ways we can raise awareness and support prevention within our communities?

   3. Crystal mentions the importance of support networks and her 'siblings of survival.' How has community support or finding your 'chosen family' impacted your life?

   4. In this episode, Crystal discusses the influence of her faith in regaining memories and protecting her during traumatic times. Have you experienced or heard of similar stories where faith helped in healing and recollection?

   5. Crystal uses her ministry 'Cookies and Jesus' to spread awareness about human trafficking. What are some creative ways you've seen people use their passions to make a social impact?

   6. The episode highlights the lack of aftercare for trafficking survivors. What solutions or support systems would you like to see implemented to help those exiting such traumatic experiences?

   7. Crystal's story of financial manipulation and stolen funds sheds light on another side of trafficking abuse. How can we better educate and protect potential victims from financial exploitation?

   8. Hearing about Crystal's hope to bring her son home is a powerful reminder of the bonds between parent and child. If you're comfortable, share how family or reconnecting with loved ones has influenced your healing journey.

   9. Crystal's transition from superficial religious exposure to a deeper faith is a significant part of her story. How do you or did you cultivate a genuine spiritual connection in your own life?

   10. For My Bonus Child's Pathways to Home initiative includes a holiday auction. What are some innovative fundraising ideas you've seen that effectively support homelessness and trafficking survivors?

Worksheet: Crystal's Journey

Objective: This worksheet is designed to help listeners reflect on the key topics explored in the episode, understand the complex realities of homelessness and trafficking, and consider ways to support survivors like Crystal.

Section 1: Understanding the Story

1. Key Themes: Resilience and Faith

   • How did Crystal’s faith play a role in her survival and healing journey?

   • In what ways does Crystal express her faith through "Cookies and Jesus"?

2. Human Trafficking Statistics

   • What did you learn about the relationship between traffickers and victims?

   • How does this statistic challenge common misconceptions about trafficking?

3. Personal Reflection:

   • Reflect on a time when faith or belief helped you through a difficult situation. What similarities or differences do you see compared to Crystal's story?

Section 2: Analyzing Impact

1. Effects of Homelessness and Trafficking

   • What were some of the significant challenges Crystal faced due to homelessness and trafficking?

   • Discuss the role of financial manipulation in Crystal’s experience. How did it contribute to her becoming homeless?

2. The Role of Community

   • How has Crystal found strength and solace in her "siblings of survival" and spiritual family?

   • In what ways do support organizations like Zara House contribute to the healing process for survivors?

Section 3: Building Awareness and Support

1. Spreading Awareness

   • How does Crystal use her ministry and social media presence to spread awareness of trafficking and homelessness?

   • What impact can sharing personal stories like Crystal's have on broader societal understanding?

2. Call to Action: Supporting Survivors

   • List ways you can support initiatives like "Cookies and Jesus" or other community programs for trafficking survivors.

   • How can you contribute to raising awareness about the realities of human trafficking in your community?

Section 4: Reflecting on Personal Beliefs and Actions

1. Personal Beliefs:

   • How has listening to Crystal's story influenced your understanding of faith and resilience?

   • What steps can you take to ensure a more empathetic and informed perspective about homelessness and trafficking?

2. Self-Care and Advocacy:

   • Reflect on the importance of self-care for survivors and advocates. Why is this crucial?

   • What are some self-care practices you can adopt to maintain your well-being while engaging in advocacy work?