At just 14 years old, Dara’s life was torn apart.

She grew up in a small Cambodian village, surrounded by rice fields and raised by her grandmother while her parents worked in Thailand. Like any teenager, she had dreams for her future. But one day, a classmate she trusted betrayed her, exploiting her online.

In an instant, Dara’s childhood was shattered. The images of abuse were shared across her school and community. Shame and fear spread faster than anyone could protect her. Her grandmother, unable to comprehend what had happened, blamed Dara. The home that once sheltered her became unsafe.

When asked how her life would have been if she hadn’t received help, Dara said: “I would be dead.” 

A teacher’s courage changed everything

One teacher noticed something was wrong and took action, calling the human trafficking hotline. Through that act of courage, Dara was connected to Hagar.

When Dara arrived at Hagar’s foster home, she was withdrawn and afraid. She barely spoke. But through gentle counseling, medical care, and daily love from her Hagar foster family, Dara began to heal.

Her foster parents, who’ve cared for dozens of children over the past 22 years, say that communication with love is the foundation for restoration.

Slowly, Dara began to believe that she was not to blame, and that what happened to her does not define her.

Healing takes time — but Dara is finding her voice again

Today, Dara is safe. She goes to school again. She is making new friends. And she’s beginning to dream about the future.

And with the support of her Hagar lawyer, she is doing something incredibly brave — testifying against her abuser. It is a courageous act for a 14-year-old girl.

Healing from trauma doesn’t happen overnight. It takes time, care, and the kind of love that never gives up.

Your gift makes stories like Dara’s possible

Because of donors like you, Dara has food on her plate, a safe bed to sleep in, and trauma counseling that helps her rebuild trust and confidence.

But there are more girls like Dara — trapped, silenced, and waiting for someone to notice.