From Trapped & Trafficked to Finding Hope

A woman without shelter is vulnerable to so much more than the Iowa weather elements. This fact became a terrifying reality for Kelli when, after losing her apartment and then her car, she found herself trapped in the bondage of human trafficking.

Kelli, 39, began struggling financially years ago following an unhealthy 15-year relationship during which she was the sole provider for her two children and their father. Kelli’s ongoing alcohol and drug abuse had strained relationships with her parents, and her grandmother was her main source of encouragement and support. When her grandmother died in 2019, Kelli was plunged into a depression further fueled by her addictions. Eventually, she was evicted from her apartment and became homeless.

Kelli was traumatized by the physical and sexual assault she experienced while living on the streets. To cope, she would disassociate herself from reality, which is a common protection mechanism for abuse victims. But she continually came back to the realization that she desperately needed to free herself and find her best life again.

With a strong faith in God, and the desire to heal from her addictions, Kelli escaped trafficking predators and worked hard to regain employment. She is serious about rebuilding her emotional and financial health, but she still doesn’t have a home. Her two children are currently in the Department of Human Services custody, and she has a restraining order against her ex-partner.

Her focus is now on working to establish a safe home for her children. “I want to provide for [my children.] And I don’t want to be a weight on the system that’s already overcrowded,” Kelli says.

Kelli works two jobs and has set up a payment plan for her outstanding debts. She was able to purchase another car for transportation to work and for shelter while she sleeps. She’s applied for housing and is waiting to hear back.

Kelli believed God spared her life during these last two years of homelessness so that she can tell her story to help others. She hopes her story of determination and hope will encourage more people to get involved with Joppa and help people out of homelessness.

She knows she can use Joppa’s Homeless Resource Center for assistance with checking on her housing application and other needs like food, clothing and support services. “I get to be a part of the Joppa family. I get to experience something that’s actually really amazing.” Kelli credits Joppa and the supplies she’s received from the Joppa Homeless Resource Center for helping her survive and take steps to start rebuilding her life.

“I am amazed at God’s power. I’m amazed at the resources he’s made available to me and how he’s moved so much around for me.”