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Charity Spotlight: Sanctuary Night

Sanctuary Night

Photo by Nick Fancher

By Sarah Shumick

For women caught up in the cycles of prostitution in the westside Columbus neighborhood of Franklinton, Sanctuary Night can provide a bit of hope. Over the past two years, the non-profit organization has partnered with Lower Lights Ministries to offer women a hot meal, clothing and hygiene items as well as other resources. Sanctuary Night is offered once a week, every week at a consistent time and location and serves women who are seeking respite from life on the streets.

Sanctuary Night hygiene packs

Photo by Nick Fancher

Seeking to instill “dignity and respect,” the leadership steering committee of Sanctuary Night bring experience and expertise from backgrounds including mental health clinicians and counselors, law enforcement, church administration, as well as a survivor of trafficking, among others. One member of the leadership team is Heather Mohrman, who previously served at-risk and drug-addicted women at Rachel’s House and as a probation officer for CATCH Court in Franklin County.

“We are a “drop-in” center for women caught in prostitution and sex trafficking on Columbus’s west side. For about two years, we have been borrowing space for two hours a week to create this safe place for women,” says Mohrman.

Sanctuary Night manicure

Photo by Nick Fancher

“Now, we find ourselves having purchased a building and in the midst of a large renovation project – all with the goal of providing a place where women in this situation can find rest, something to eat, a shower — and maybe even take a risk and let us take them to detox/treatment,” Mohrman says of Sanctuary Night’s growth. “It’s all about trust and building relationships.”

Sanctuary Night is seeking a handful of young professionals who are business-minded and have a burning passion to help victims of trafficking here in Columbus. If you’re looking for a passion project and you want to help build up a non-profit in the heart of Franklinton, reach out to Heather Mohrman at hhmohrman@gmail.com.

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