Visits with Shanu and Meesha

Shanu (left) with Smita and the volunteer

Meesha (left) and Smita

In mid-April, Smita and a volunteer visited Shanu (rescued from a brothel in Chandrapur, Maharashtra, in 2018). Shanu lives with her parents and works in a chili field, earning Rs. 400 (~$5) a day. She shared that she wants to marry her boyfriend, but her parents disapproved. Smita inquired about the boyfriend, and Shanu did not seem to know much about him, including where he worked or how much he earned. Smita advised Shanu to wait and not to rush into marriage.

Smita and the volunteer then visited Meesha (rescued from a brothel in Chandrapur in August 2023). Meesha was glad to host Smita and the volunteer at her house. Meesha's husband died 11 years ago, and Meesha works to provide for her family. A few weeks earlier, Smita delivered a sewing machine from Freedom Firm to Meesha. She was thrilled with the gift and said it would help to provide for her son, daughter, and parents. Meesha said she uses her sewing machine regularly but is eager to complete an advanced tailoring course so she can receive more orders. Smita offered Meesha some ideas on how to save money and grow a business.