Meet Stephanie

Growing up, Stephanie witnessed things that would be hard on any child. Now, she wants to share her story to help others. 

Her mother had many struggles as a sex worker, including being trafficked and abused by her partner, Stephanie’s father. Stephanie can recall several traumatic events from her childhood that shaped who she is today. 

Starting at age 9, she and her brother were placed in four different foster homes, which she says was worse than being at home. She often sacrificed her own well-being to shield him from negative influence and abuse, developing a tough demeanor as a result.  

In her late teens and early adult years, Stephanie also engaged in sex work to survive. Her goal was to get her own place to provide her little brother with stable care.  

It was during this time that Stephanie approached Stepping Stone, a United Way donor-funded organization with a wide variety of programs and supports for sex workers across the Maritimes. They provide legal support, employment resources, clothing and food programming, and a safe place to turn. 

With Stepping Stone’s help, Stephanie’s family is in a better, safer place. She’s now a dedicated mom of six who pours out her heart and soul to help the people she loves. 

“They made me feel like I actually mattered, and like people cared about what I was going through. Thank you for everything you’ve done for my family.”