Hanna, an Uptown Safe Haven (UTSH) resident since February 2022, is a true inspiration. Coping with her past, Hanna is overcoming the severe trauma of surviving human trafficking. During this ordeal, she was transported to different states before escaping to the highways, where she lived on the streets, selling flowers, necklaces, and bracelets to survive.
Hanna hasn’t let her traumatic past define her. Instead, she channels her energy into creating beautiful crafts and building her own motor bike.
Crafts designed by Hanna. January 2023.
Hanna has been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and has reported being “very literal,” having trouble understanding body language and other emotions. Her English was limited when she arrived at UTSH; however, she has made significant progress thanks to her classes.
UTSH has been dedicated to ensuring that Hanna has everything she needs to thrive. They connected her with Lucia Rodriguez-Ramos, an ECS Spanish-speaking Resident Assistant, to help her with her language barrier. Additionally, Downtown Impact also provided a translator to support her. Hanna described her time at UTSH as a sanctuary, saying, “UTSH made me feel safe, and I am more stable, learning new things about myself.”
Motor bike put together by Hanna. January 2023.
Hanna’s crafts and motor bike attest to her resilience and determination. She found a bike frame, ordered parts from Amazon, and built a motor bike herself. Very resourceful, she only used four adjustable wrenches and an Allen’s wrench to complete the project. And despite her limited resources, she never approached the staff for tools.
Hanna remains at UTSH, working diligently to complete the program and secure an apartment. She’s a self-achiever and continues to take classes to improve her language skills. Hanna’s story is a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience of the human spirit and the importance of organizations like ECS in providing support and resources to those who have faced trauma.
*Caption date may not be exact.
