Nearly everyone is born into slavery without knowledge of how their families entered it. In most cases, the cycle continues with each generation becoming the property of the owner. We've only encountered one family sold into slavery. Their story: the grandfather passed away owing a debt to a hospital. Consequently, his son, wife, and children became slaves, to a debt that they didn’t owe.

The slaves hold significant value for them. Any children a slave has automatically becomes part of their property. However, according to the existing laws, if we step in and settle the debt obligation against a family, they are legally obligated to release them to us.

The slaves are far more valuable than the debt owed to their owners. Their labor generates substantial income, and any offspring are also considered property. Thus, the cost to purchase a family's freedom is minimal compared to their lifetime productivity and that of future generations.

This is a crucial part of our work. If not handled carefully, satisfying a family's debt doesn't set them up for a new life. After paying off the debt, we obtain legal paperwork from the slave owner, akin to reclaiming a car title. Our legal team files this paperwork with the local government, assigning each person a Pakistani Identification number. Then, we connect them with a church family for community support, provide rent-free housing for six months, and supply six months' worth of food. During this time, we help them find work and assist their children with education.

The only reason they are legally able to be owned is because of their debt obligation. So, when we satisfy that and register them as people and not property, they have rights under the law. The previous owner will not and cannot have a claim over them. This is why legally ensuring the debt obligation and registration of these contracts is such a crucial part of the process.

So far, we've never seen a family struggle to adjust to life beyond slavery. Born into it, they embrace freedom when given the chance. With six months of housing and food support, plus guidance from our pastor partners, they adapt remarkably. These hard working individuals transition from laboring long hours for little pay to jobs that sustain their new life. Though we haven't had to step in, our pastor partners are ready to assist if needed, ensuring their success in their newfound freedom.

Education is one of the most crucial components because it serves as a foundational tool for success. Typically, any group of people held down is due to a lack of education. When you cannot read or write, you become dependent on others. At that point, you are unable to advocate for your family or function effectively in a society where literacy is vital. Moreover, you are limited in accessing jobs that could elevate your standard of living above the poverty level.