What’s on our radar in human trafficking

We just thought we’d share a few things that are on our radar (click on the links). Most are related to human trafficking or slavery and they are in no particular order.

10,000 children refugees have gone missing

Exploitation in electronics

(Get the full report here)

Recent change of focus for Destiny Rescue

We were so encouraged to see the latest reports from DR in late 2015. Rescuing girls is one thing, but having a best practice approach to rehabilitation and reintegration is another. Based on the numbers of rescues they were reporting in the beginning of 2015 we were concerned about how they were keeping up with the massive after-care process. We love that these guys are willing to go back to the drawing board and make sure they are complying with Governmental standards and helping these precious souls have long-term healing and change.

Shopping ethically

You will be horrified by some of the latest news stories you’ll read:

Most Aussies don’t know that in December Woolworths, Coles and Aldi were all buying prawns and seafood from a Thai company involved in the forced labour of men, women and children. If we knew our prawns caused someone else to be trapped in hell I’m sure we would all have a re-think about where we bought them.

This job in Margate with Save the Children

Maybe it will suit someone else 🙂 If you don’t know who Save the Children are check them out here.

Zika virus and travelling to Brazil

Obviously most things concerning Brazil are close to our hearts and this one is no exception. Another level of concern is that Tim and my Brother will be heading over to Rio in August this year to once again serve and observe all that God is doing in this country. We watch the spread and handling of this virus with deep concern and pray for the beautiful babies and families that are affected.

What is causing the microcephaly outbreak?

Olympics and Zika

Zika related abortion debate

That’s all for now…stay educated. Don’t shut yours eyes because it’s painful, but keep it balanced or we’ll all end up depressed.

Love Jess xxoo

A lot can happen in two weeks by Jess

For the last two weeks we have being in Rio de Janeiro having a holiday with my family. It was such a blessing and wonderfully timed as we gear up to help with Liberdade during the World Cup.

The highlights

– I turned 30 and had the most amazing day including a one hour massage at the famous Copacabana Palace
– I got to see my folks, sister and Rachel
– Our schedule was our own
– Tim and I managed to have a few dates/outings by ourselves.
– We explored Rio with Rio Natural tour group and saw some truly amazing things

Here are some pics…

Christ the Redeemer

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Christ the Redeemer and Santa Teresa Rio Natural Ecotourism P1030173

Sugar Loaf

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Copacabana and Ipanima

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Tijuca Hike

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My birthday

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Two Brothers hike and Favela tour

Senderismo y Montanismo Morro dois Irmãos Rio Natural Ecotourism P1030235 P1040217

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 Hang-gliding

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The sacrifices

– I have been missing out on celebrating some of my closest friends birthdays, this is especially disappointing as most of us are turning 30.
– One of my amazing friends just became an Ironman. If I was in Australia, I would have traveled to Cairns to see her cross the finish line.
– The birth of my niece! God bless SKYPE! We were able to meet Esther this morning via Skype, but I still feel sad that I can’t hold her and kiss her in person. I also wish we were there to support my sister and brother (Tim’s Bro and sister-in-law) as they journey through the first few weeks as a family.
– My cat died. Jimmy was hit by a car and had to be put down. I was and still am totally heartbroken. Tim gave him to me for my 21st birthday and we had 9 years with him. I felt so bad that I couldn’t be there as he was put down, but an amazing friend played him a WhatsApp message from me and cuddled him for me.

So, it’s been a few weeks of highs and personal difficulties, but honestly… I never thought I would be in Rio for my birthday. I am truly blessed! We are currently in Niterio, which is a city across the bay from Rio. We are staying with friends of friends (who are now our friends) and loving our time here. Tim spoke at Pier 49 church on Sunday night and we’ve been able to explore this city a little. We’ll head to Petrópolis on Wednesday, so I’m sure there will be some more interesting updates to come.

Love to all
Jess xxoo