Major Carin Holmes, Southern Africa region of the Salvation Army
Young people are particularly vulnerable to false approaches promising great rewards.
In an environment in which jobs are more and more scarce, the temptation to try out a great sounding prospect is huge. But our message to young people is: if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
In its work in combating human trafficking, the Salvation Army has frequently come across young people who have been lured into slavery and the sex trade by promises of employment. In many cases, they leave their homes and families to pursue these – only to find themselves in the grip of the unscrupulous.
Once they have been caught up in the web of human trafficking, it is extraordinarily difficult to break away. Usually, they are fed with mind and body controlling drugs while in captivity, making them even less likely to try and break out of this vicious cycle of exploitation.
Our message to young people is to treat job offers with great caution. Rather consult a person of experience before taking something up. Our Salvation Army officers in our churches are available to offer advice when needed, and we invite you to approach them if in any doubt.
The Salvation Army has a thriving youth department that caters for children and young people up to the age of 30 years. Its structure includes many opportunities for people and young people to serve God within the children and youth ministries in a variety of capacities – from corps to divisional youth and children’s boards, to YP (young people) workers and youth leaders.
The structure is carefully designed to avoid any age group from “falling through the cracks”, thereby ensuring relevant ministry and nurturing of each child and young person.
