In Mexico, the SSpS answer a profound call to serve those most in need. Within the “Our Lady of Guadalupe” Region, 23 sisters from diverse nationalities have, for 38 years, dedicated themselves to accompanying the most vulnerable groups, with a special priority for women, indigenous communities, children, and migrants.
Confronting a Harsh Reality
Our experiences with women in situations of extreme vulnerability have inspired us to develop targeted projects. In Mexico City, our community responded to the cries of women in the Revolución area. Lacking support, opportunities, and often deceived, they find themselves trapped in prostitution. While the problem is complex and we cannot help everyone, our mission is to walk alongside a significant group of women, aged 35 to 75, who face not only prostitution but also violence, poverty, discrimination, and abandonment.
The Urgent Crisis of Exploitation
For 16 years, we have accompanied women in this challenging area. In Mexico, the trafficking of persons for sexual exploitation continues to grow, disproportionately affecting women and children, who are treated as mere commodities within systems of inequality and domination. The reality near Revolución metro station is stark, compelling us to act, to accompany, and to offer alternatives for a life of dignity.
Our Methodology: Proximity and accompaniment
Each day, we walk alongside women life has placed in vulnerable situations. We listen to their stories, share their fears, and celebrate their small victories. Our work is born of proximity, sincere listening, and non-judgmental accompaniment.
Tools for Transformation
We provide legal, medical, psychological, and social support, alongside alternatives for dignified work. Our goal is to help them regain their autonomy, support their families, and build a life with dignity.
A Mission of Hope and Empowerment
We know we cannot help everyone, but every woman we empower is a triumph of hope. Our mission is clear: to accompany women in situations of prostitution and human trafficking, providing them with the tools and workshops they need to transform their reality and become the authors of their own stories.
Our Vision for the Women
Our vision is to see them become self-assured, with healthy self-esteem and an awareness of their rights; women capable of defending their dignity and seizing opportunities for holistic development for themselves and their families. Our work focuses on four essential pillars:
- Holistic Support: Personalized accompaniment in health, psychological, and legal support.
- Integral Formation: Information on physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
- Economic Empowerment: Training and support for productive projects, such as micro-credits, sewing, and knitting.
- Safe Community: Creating safe spaces where they can express themselves, feel heard, and be valued.
Every story we encounter, every life we accompany, reminds us that hope is not a luxury, but a right. Here is the story of María Elena.
My name is María Elena, though most know me as Ivonne. I am 55 years old and was born in Mexico City. My childhood was unstable: my father was absent, and my mother worked arduously, leaving me to care for my younger siblings. Family conflicts pushed me out of my home at thirteen.
A Path of Survival and Struggle
I worked as a domestic employee in La Merced but was soon introduced to prostitution, which became my means of survival. Motherhood came early: I had my first daughter at sixteen and twins at eighteen. With my mother’s support, I finished secondary school, but I continued in prostitution to support my children.
The Grip of Addiction and Danger
My relationships were marked by abuse and control, often by pimps who exploited me. At twenty-two, I fell into drug addiction, which lasted 25 years and robbed me of the chance to raise my children. Life on the streets has always been dangerous. I have faced serious threats, even at gunpoint.
Feeling Trapped, Yet Finding Hope
I never imagined I would remain in this life for so long, but the years passed, and now I feel trapped by my age, expenses, and the fear of not being able to provide. Today, I rent a small apartment near Revolución, where I live with my son and two grandchildren. My eldest daughter is also in prostitution, which pains me deeply.
Small Steps Toward Dignity
Still, I try to find small jobs—selling food, (With the help of the Sisters Servants of the Holy Spirit I have set up a food stall) helping at fairs—that remind me I can do o ther things. These moments give me dignity and hope. Despite society’s judgment, I am respected by my neighbors. Yet, I often feel shame and pray for another path.
What sustains me now is the presence of Sr. Selvi. Her visits, care, and encouragement give me hope and remind me that I am not alone. I dream of leaving prostitution and building a different future, especially for my grandchildren.
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Sr. Selvi Selva Raj who journeys with the women shares her story too: True help begins not with solutions, but with empathy. It’s a journey of walking alongside the vulnerable, listening without judgment, and building a foundation of trust where hope can grow.
The Heart of Our Mission: Empathy Before Action
Helping others goes beyond providing support; it begins with an open heart, attentive listening, and deep understanding—always without judgment. Once trust is earned, we can offer awareness, motivation, and guidance, creating a safe space where women feel truly accompanied.
Walking Together Through Struggle and Strength
For years, I have walked alongside these women, sharing their challenges and showing them they are not alone. Every encounter leaves imprints of support, resilience, and hope. Even in the darkest moments, by walking beside them, we discover that light always persists: a sun that shines fiercely and renews hope.
Our Greatest Challenge: The Need for Safe Spaces
One of our biggest challenges, however, is space. We need safe locations near their places of work where we can listen and accompany them without risk. Currently, our monthly gatherings are held at our community, which is far from their daily reality, limiting our reach and our ability to be present in their everyday lives.
Every Step Leaves a Lasting Mark
Every step we take with them leaves a mark that transcends, reminding us that close, safe, and consistent accompaniment can transform lives and build a future filled with hope
Sr. Selvi Selva Raj, SSpS – Region of Mexico
