STEFYN
The first time I was introduced to The Children’s Village was through The Sanctuary. I was 16, dealing with trauma at home, and needed a safe space to slow down, reflect, and figure out who I was with support instead of pressure.
After leaving the first time, I came back when I found out I was pregnant. My family wasn’t supportive, and living at home became uncomfortable. The Sanctuary staff helped me get connected to Safe Harbour, Safe Harbour, a group that I attended every other Wednesday. We talked about emotions, coping skills, and healthy versus unhealthy relationships—things I could actually use in my life.
During the summer, Ms. Jenn, Division Director of Safe Harbour Services had me help out around the program and paid me so I could buy baby supplies and get what I needed. Coming to CV helped me find resources at a time when I didn’t really have any. What made CV different was the staff—you can actually connect with them and talk about how you’re feeling, not just be told to follow rules.
They really focus on coping skills and having a safety plan. To this day, if I feel like I might have a panic attack, I know the steps to walk myself through it because of what I learned at The Sanctuary.
When my time with The Children’s Village was coming to an end, staff helped connect me to Covenant House so I could continue working toward stability. I’m 18 now, I have a job, insurance, and I’m focused on finding stable housing and becoming more independent. I also want to go to college.
Art has been really important to me. I write poetry all the time, and I shared my work at the Safe Harbour art show last year. It means a lot when people see my work and take something from it – it makes me feel seen. I’m thankful to Ms. Jenn for creating that space for us.
For a long time, I felt like I was preparing for everyone else and didn’t get time to learn myself. Now I’m choosing to focus on growing, being productive, and finding healthy outlets. I know now that I’m not alone—and that I can ask for help while still taking responsibility for my life.
The Safe Harbour Program provides therapy and support to teens who have experienced or are at high risk of trafficking or sexual exploitation, helping them build the confidence and skills needed to safely return to their families and communities.
The Sanctuary is Westchester County’s only runaway and homeless shelter specifically for teens. It offers a safe place to stay, individual and group counseling, family-style meals, and coaching for youth transitioning back into their communities.
