"In October 2008, Kutty and his family were rescued from slavery in a rice mill. This week, he was elected as a local government official who will oversee several villages.
Kutty has thrived since his family was rescued from forced labor slavery in a rice mill where his four children were forced to work instead of going to school. When International Justice Mission staff first met him, he had tears in his eyes as he shared about the abusive conditions he endured and fear he had of the owner.
After rescue, Kutty completed IJM’s comprehensive two-year aftercare program. His kids are back in school, and both he and his wife have good jobs to support their family. After choosing to participate in a special Leadership Training sponsored by IJM, he stepped up as a leader among his peers.
Kutty decided to run for office, and this week he won in a landslide victory. “I want to do good for my people and my village,” Kutty proclaimed to IJM staff who gathered to congratulate him." - (from International Justice Mission)
This incredible story illustrates the power and importance of aftercare. We are working hard to bring the beauty and healing of the arts to help in this process through our program Arts Aftercare.
