Being alone without family and community makes domestic workers vulnerable during difficult times. This was the case for Anne*, a domestic worker who found herself in a harrowing and distressing situation.

One night, HELP received an urgent call from Anne, who was in severe emotional distress. She was struggling with deep depression and even suicidal thoughts as she tried to leave an abusive employment situation. The HELP team responded quickly, going out at night to pick her up and provide her with comfort and support as she was deeply troubled. 

Anne felt helpless, unable to see a way out of her situation. HELP immediately provided her casework support, financial assistance to help meet her basic needs and mental health counselling.

The emergency shelter that HELP arranged for Anne also became a source of solace and community. Anne found encouragement and a listening ear from her fellow domestic workers.  This sense of togetherness and mutual support was helpful as Anne worked to get back on her feet.

“I am so grateful that I was able to leave my employment situation in a proper manner,” Anne shared, her voice tinged with a newfound strength and resilience. “I hope more domestic workers who find themselves in a similar situation will find the help and assistance they need.”

Anne’s story highlights the critical importance of ensuring that domestic workers have access to robust support systems during times of crisis. Isolated from their families and social networks, domestic workers can be vulnerable when faced with abuse, exploitation, or other challenges. 

*Name has been changed to protect privacy.