Restoring the broken is one of our defining values. But in the slum communities of Cambodia, where men and women are often enslaved by addictions, poverty and exploitation, many are abused, trafficked, or exploited in other ways—especially children and other vulnerable members of society.

Knowing that God “is near to the brokenhearted, and saves the crushed in spirit” (Psalms 34:18), we decided to address these needs.

That resulted in the creation of a team of social workers we call VIEW, which stands for Victim Interaction and Engagement for Wholeness.

Our social workers make initial contact with those we know, or suspect, to be victims of abuse, human trafficking, and/or another form of exploitation (interaction). After assessing a person’s need and determining their willingness to accept help, we begin working alongside them to bring them to a place of healing and wholeness (engagement).

This work often involves counseling both the victim and her family, and working with other ministry partners, government officials, and police. We also work with other ministry teams within ELM, such as those that provide skills training, education sponsorship, and shelter for those who must be removed from harmful situations. Before restoration can begin, strategies must be developed in cooperation with some or all of these groups to stop the harm being done to the victim.

Deep and lasting change takes time, resources and the outpouring of God’s love, but the rewards are worth it. And in the process of helping victims find freedom and wholeness, God begins a deeper work within families and even whole communities!

If this work is close to your heart, please consider becoming a prayer and financial partner with our VIEW team.