The Shechem Children’s Home is a short-term assessment center for survivors of online sexual exploitation of children (OSEC). This is a form of human trafficking where images or videos of children performing sexual acts are sold over the internet. It is a growing problem globally and in the Philippines, where Shechem is located. Because the vast majority of perpetrators are direct relatives of the children, it can take time after rescue to locate safe, long-term housing options. Shechem steps into the gap and provides a safe place for healing to begin. 

During the most recent quarter, the Shechem Children’s Home hosted 16 children, including 14 girls and 2 boys. At Shechem, children receive Christ-centered and trauma-informed care. Keep reading for some recent updates from the Home.

Like children around the world, the pandemic has had an impact on daily life for the children living at Shechem. Classes are still being held online, but through the encouragement and guidance of their tutor, social workers, and live-in house parents, the children are staying motivated. Older children are now regularly coaching younger students, which has been enjoyable for both groups. The children look forward to the day when they are allowed more face-to-face time with teachers and tutors. 

Trying new activities helps fill the time. Most recently, four of the older children learned to make pizza and pandesal—soft, yeasted rolls. Two older girls shared that they enjoy trying new recipes in part because they like to be busy, which they explained helps them to not dwell so much on their difficult pasts. The younger children have been taking care of the plants around the house, including a small garden.

For physical development, online Zumba and jiu-jitsu trainings have kept children active. Four of the newly-arrived children were initially very hesitant to participate and had a hard time engaging, spending the sessions just observing the others. As they grew more accustomed to life at the Home, they joined the training and began to enjoy it. 

Arts and crafts projects, along with studying musical instruments like guitar, are giving children outlets for their emotions. All of the children at the home have complex and long-term trauma as a result of being trafficked. Therapeutic intervention is making a difference, helping children cope with their pasts and find hope for the future. 

Mariel*, 15, struggled emotionally after being removed from her family after rescue. Because a high percentage of OSEC cases are perpetrated by family members—41 percent facilitated by biological parents and 42 percent by other relatives—separation from immediately family is an important safety precaution undertaken by law enforcement agencies in cases like these. 

To help Mariel process her feelings, her therapist suggested a technique called the empathy chair, where Mariel could “talk” with her mother. In doing so, Mariel also became more comfortable sharing her feelings with those that she trusted. “So now I realize I can change, and I know what I would do if I am dysregulated,” Mariel says. 

Long-term placement can look different depending on the child’s circumstance. Some of the children are reunited with safe family members who have received training and resources from a social worker. Children who have no safe options at home are placed with a trained foster family or at a long-term shelter.

Over the past three months, three older children, including a 17-year-old mother and her four-month-old baby, found long-term placement with an organization that will offer empowerment, education, and economic lessons. Those who stay at this home are old enough to consider independent living, and the organization will help them gain the skills they need to do so in a safe, secure way.

Through play, art, therapy, medical care, education, and more, children who have been harmed are learning at Shechem that they are safe, they are loved by God and by others, and that they matter. While it doesn’t erase difficult memories or trauma, the ministry of Shechem is giving children important tools to process and cope, helping them find hope for their futures.

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Learn more about the ministry of Shechem Children’s Home: ncm.org/shechem

*Name is changed for protection.