Human trafficking survivors identify financial security as one of their highest priorities, but are commonly met with economic barriers as they exit human trafficking and re-enter the community. In the Philippines, survivors experience pressure not only to ensure their own financial stability, but also that of their family members. With these limitations, survivors commonly remain threatened by poverty and financial insecurity, increasing their vulnerability to re-exploitation and other forms of gender-based violence.
Among Eleison’s survivor services is Bansay, a brief financial literacy training that covers savings, budgeting, debt management, financial negotiation with family members and peers, and emotional wellness and self-care. After Bansay, Eleison offers individualized support sessions to help each participant achieve his/her goals. Bansay means “to practice” in Cebuano, representing how the program teaches the fundamentals of financial literacy as a stepping stone to our 2-year matched-savings program, Barug. Through these services, we hope to provide more opportunities for survivors to attain financial empowerment and security.
Thus far in 2022, 7 cohorts have graduated from Bansay. This included 30 survivors and a total of 20 group sessions. During a recent focus group discussion (FGD), Bansay graduates were invited to talk about their experiences in joining Bansay. One participant shared:
“My experience is that I have challenges with savings. I admit that I am like a one-day millionaire. I spend my money just in a day. It is a challenge to save, but I started to apply the envelope system, starting with the transportation. I slowly saved small amounts and then I saved next with snacks. I learned how to look at the future. I don’t withdraw all my salary like before. Although at first it was hard and there is still temptation, but I learned from Bansay to start small.”– Bansay participant
At the early part of the year, the Bansay program was conducted virtually to remain accessible to survivors who are coping with the pandemic restrictions as well as the ongoing recovery from the Super Typhoon Rai/Odette that devastated the country. During the FGD, a Bansay graduate shared about the impact of Bansay in her life and expressed gratitude for the Eleison team’s continued assistance despite the adversities:
“Bansay had a great impact on me. I am inspired to do the strategy. The information is also shareable. I was happy because I know people from Barug [Eleison’s savings program], so when I joined Bansay, I felt like I’m with a family. I felt Eleison has a heart for us. I don’t have to be intimidated or feel scared. It has an impact not just because of financial literacy, but also the feeling of family. I know some who talk about mental health and they would think about Eleison immediately. It is not just about the program, but also about how they [Eleison staff] make you feel, especially when they keep checking in. I liked how they reached out during the Odette relief, so I am really happy. ” – Bansay participant
To find out more or support our work, feel free to contact us at info@eleisonfoundation.org or donate here.
