Isaiah 61:1 says, “The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is upon me, for the LORD has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to comfort the brokenhearted and to proclaim that captives will be released, and prisoners will be freed.” This verse came to mind when Jim Hamm, one of the founders of “From the Ground Up Ministries”, witnessed a news segment on the global epidemic of Human Trafficking. The news segment appeared in 2012 when Jim and Dawn Hamm were raising their teenage daughter. Jim felt God’s calling but didn’t think it was the right time, so he prayed for someone to be in his path, to lead him to the battle. In 2015 the calling resonated with his wife, Dawn, during a human trafficking forum.
Though their comfortable lives seemed incompatible with this new mission, the yearning to answer the cries of these broken girls couldn't be ignored. So, in a leap of faith, they joined a local safe house as caregivers, leaving their careers behind. This experience fueled their desire to do more and open up their own safe house. Sixteen months later, "From the Ground Up Ministries" rose from the ashes, offering a beacon of hope in the form of an At-Risk Safe House. Nestled within their own home, it provided a haven of family, love, and faith for young girls escaping the darkness of trafficking.
“From the Ground Up Ministries” became fully licensed in early 2017. Jim and Dawn began to review case files of young girls who had been trafficked, leading them to welcome the first teen to live in their home. But the need was overwhelming and case files of vulnerable girls piled up. Every girl carrying the burden of a unique story, each word a plea for help. The Hamm’s knew they couldn't turn away. Fueled by unwavering faith and compassion, they answered the call once more in 2020. Expanding their ministry, they became a fully licensed Group Home in 2022, opening their doors to three precious girls at a time.
"From the Ground Up Ministries" isn't just a story of sacrifice; it's a testament to the transformative power of love and faith. It's a beacon of hope, lighting the path for young girls from despair to a brighter future. We invite you to join us in making a difference.