Thistle Farms: A Safe Haven for Human Trafficking Survivors

In this episode, Jamie sits down with Becca Stevens—nonprofit leader, entrepreneur, and founder of Thistle Farms—to discuss how they are changing lives through their mission to help female survivors of human trafficking. Becca shares the powerful story behind Thistle Farms, the challenges these women face, and how the organization provides long-term support and sustainable employment to help them rebuild their lives.

Episode at a Glance:

• How Thistle Farms finds and supports women in need, with over 600 currently housed and hundreds still on the waiting list.
• The comprehensive programs Thistle Farms offers, from housing to job training.
• Becca’s personal journey of overcoming sexual abuse and how it led her to help survivors of human trafficking.
• How many women stay in the program versus those who relapse—and why 2024 was a “miracle year.”
• Why Thistle Farms relies on product sales and donations instead of federal funding.
• The meaning behind their best-selling candles and its impact.
• Their partnerships with 20 global organizations that help promote survivor-made products.
• A powerful success story of a trafficking survivor who went from a drug sting to becoming a homeowner and Thistle Farms’ Director of Manufacturing.
• How you can get involved, donate, and support this incredible organization.

Who is Becca Stevens?

Becca Stevens is a nonprofit leader, entrepreneur, priest, survivor, and founder and president of Thistle Farms. Over the years, she has founded 12 nonprofits and justice enterprises, mentored 70+ organizations, and raised over $75 million in support of her mission. She is also an author of 12 books, with over 300,000 copies sold.

Becca has served as a chaplain at St. Augustine’s Chapel at Vanderbilt University for nearly 30 years and has been recognized as a CNN Hero, White House Champion of Change, and has received seven honorary doctorates. Featured on PBS NewsHour, The Today Show, CNN, and ABC World News, Becca continues to lead meaningful conversations on how love is the strongest force for change in the world.

Resources & Links:

• Support the Mission: Shop Thistle Farms | Donate | Learn More
• Get Involved: Find ways to support survivors through Thistle Farms’ national network.
• Follow Thistle Farms: Instagram | Facebook | Website

Liked this Episode? Check These Out!

• Combating Human Trafficking with Covenant Rescue Group
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• Let’s Talk: Sex Trafficking and Trafficking Hope
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Where to Listen?

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