Monday, March 30, 2026 | 2 a.m.
Editor’s note: Este artículo está traducido al español.
A Lifeline for Survivors: Hope Co. in Las Vegas
In the vibrant heart of Las Vegas, where dreams and reality often collide, a powerful initiative has emerged to support survivors of human trafficking. Founded by Veronica Anzorena, Hope Co. is a marketplace that not only provides a platform for handmade jewelry, bags, and clothing but also serves as a lifeline for those seeking to rebuild their lives. nine years since its inception, Anzorena’s vision has expanded to address an urgent need within her own community.
Craft Skills as a Path to Independence
Anzorena’s journey began with a keen observation: trafficking survivors possess remarkable craft skills but often lack opportunities to showcase them. Recalling her early motivations, she states, “I realized we can do this here. We can support our survivors here in Las Vegas and in America.” This dual focus on empowerment and sustainability became the foundation of Hope Co., merging a nonprofit initiative with a for-profit business model.
Addressing the Epidemic
Human trafficking remains a pressing issue, particularly in Nevada, which often records the highest rates of such cases across the United States. In 2024, the National Human Trafficking Hotline registered 418 reports from Nevada alone. While law enforcement plays a crucial role in rescuing victims, Anzorena emphasizes the equally vital need for sustained support. Hope Co. aims to facilitate survivors’ transitions toward independence by harnessing their talents and providing them with practical skills.
Real Stories of Recovery
A shining example of Hope Co.’s impact is seen through the first woman Anzorena collaborated with, a resident from the Walter Hoving Home. Struggling with payday loans and lacking sufficient income, she found herself ensnared in a difficult financial situation. Anzorena stepped in, offering to teach her jewelry-making skills, which led to the woman paying off her loans within just two months. This success story paved the way for others, creating a ripple effect as word spread among women in similar predicaments.
Long Path to Independence
Despite these successes, Anzorena acknowledges that recovery from human trafficking is often a lengthy and complex process. Most survivors face numerous challenges, including emotional trauma, homelessness, and substance abuse. On average, it takes five to six years for individuals to achieve full independence. Throughout her experience, Anzorena has collaborated with around ten women, each with distinct stories and varying needs.
The Role of Community Support
Rosie Dillon, a program manager at the Hoving Home, stresses the importance of a supportive community for both the survivors and the organizations working with them. “It takes a community and just an army of people to pour into just that one person, and in so many different areas,” she remarks. The interconnectedness among organizations tackling human trafficking in Las Vegas is a testament to the collaborative approach that seeks holistic solutions for these women.
Bridging Employment Gaps
Jessica Whittet, the executive director of TrueID, a reintegration housing program, highlights the struggles survivors face in securing stable employment. With many entering the workforce with significant gaps in their job history, finding consistent work can be a daunting task. In some instances, Hope Co. has stepped in to offer vital employment opportunities, helping women bridge these gaps and meet their financial obligations.
Expanding the Model Nationwide
Hope Co. is part of a growing movement toward creating job opportunities for survivors of human trafficking. Similar organizations, such as Thistle Farms in Nashville, Tennessee, have successfully operated since 1997, selling products made by survivors. The establishment of the Freedom Business Alliance reflects the wider adoption of this model, connecting over 120 member organizations and providing jobs for around 5,000 individuals.
The Call to Action
Reflecting on the founding of Hope Co., Anzorena recalls a profound period of personal faith and determination. “Because of my faith, I believe that it’s part of my call and responsibility as a believer in Christ to play a role in helping people who’ve gone through hardship restore,” she explains. This belief propels her mission forward, fostering hope and healing for countless women seeking a fresh start.