A fairly new non-profit has formed to help survivors of domestic violence, sexual violence, and human trafficking.

  • New non-profit helps victims of domestic, sexual violence
  • Red Tent Initiative founded by Alison Foley-Rothrock
  • Group meant to empower, support survivors

It’s called the “Red Tent Initiative.” Its founder is Alison Foley-Rothrock, an immigration attorney. She started the group to create a culture of empowerment for the survivors.  

The non-profit helps men and women on a case by case basis with food, clothing, furniture, shelter, and even rental assistance.

According to its website, the Red Tent Initiative “takes a holistic approach, advocating for victims, supporting one another, and empowering survivors to speak out, pushing against the shame and stigmas that weigh us down.”

"I think the most important thing that we offer really is a sense of community and empathy. Because all of our participants are survivors and allies, we all feel really invested in what we're doing,” explained Foley-Rothrock.

Jazmin Santana is one of the dozens of people the organization has helped.

She came to Polk County from Venezuela to remarry her ex-husband.

When she arrived in January of 2017, she said life became a living nightmare with a relationship full of verbal abuse and threats.   

With her home country in turmoil, and her limited ability to speak English, she felt she had nowhere to go.

She turned to her immigration attorney, Alison Foley-Rothrock, for help.

It was around the same time Foley-Rothrock had started the non-profit. The non-profit found temporary housing for Santana.

"Now I'm very happy," said Santana.

About half of the people the organization has helped are immigrants.

The Red Tent Initiative is funded entirely by donations.

It’s hosting a 5k and collaborative fundraiser on Mar. 31. The collaborative will feature artists, dancers, and spoken word performers and survivors who will share their stories. The event's flyer said there will be a frank discussion of assault with some adult language. Children will not be allowed to attend unless accompanied by an adult.

The 5k is happening at Lake Hollingsworth at 8 a.m.

The Collaborative event is at 7 p.m. at LkldLive in Studio B, located at 202 N Massachusetts Ave., Lakeland, Fl 33801. 

To register, click here.