Wondering how Gifts of Freedom works or where your gift goes? Every question you ask helps you understand the incredible impact you’re making in protecting people from violence.

1. What does IJM do?

International Justice Mission (IJM) is a global organisation that protects people in poverty from violence. We partner with local authorities in 33 programs, with offices in 18 countries, to combat trafficking and slavery, violence against women and children, and police abuse of power. Since we began, IJM’s work has reduced slavery and violence by 50-85% in nine different jurisdictions around the world. From our first rescue operations to our rapid global expansion, IJM has helped protect more than 12 million people from violence, building a future where freedom and safety can last.

2. How is IJM different from other anti-slavery groups?

There are many outstanding organisations – our peers – working to end modern slavery. Here’s what makes IJM’s part in the fight, distinct:

Highlighted by U.S. News & World Report as one of 10 non-profits “making a difference,” IJM is unique in its holistic approach to justice.We follow cases all the way from investigation, to rescue, to holding criminals accountable, to aftercare for survivors. This approach shows us where systems fail to protect people living in poverty, and allows us to partner with governments to fix them.

We’re seeing communities transformed. For example, after four years of IJM partnership with law enforcement in Cebu, the Philippines, independent auditors found a 79% decrease in the availability of minors for sex. You can find out more about our work and approach here.

3. Were the hand-drawn cards really drawn by child-survivors?

Yes! For their protection, we can't share a lot about these children but we can say that they were asked to draw what Christmas meant to them. You’ll see trees, stars, food, and families – simple joys now filled with freedom.

These children have been given another chance at life, and we're honoured to share their joy and resilience through these cards. By gifting them, you’re sharing the spirit of the season, celebrating survivors’ strength, and supporting their journey to freedom.

4. Why are you doing Gifts of Freedom and not just asking for donations at Christmas?

Gifts of Freedom gives you the chance to share your passion to end slavery with someone you love. It’s a meaningful way to give a gift that meets real needs and restores freedom and safety for survivors of violence. 

Most people believe that slavery shouldn't exist, but many don’t know about IJM’s work. Gifts of Freedom makes that work visible and tangible, showing how everyday acts of generosity can help provide real essentials like aftercare, protection, and restoration for people around the world who have lived through violence.

Christmas is an amazing time to share this cause with your friends and family by giving them a gift that changes lives. You do, of course, always have the option to donate directly.

5. What does IJM do with my donation? Where does my gift's money go?

Each gift is carefully priced to reflect the real needs of IJM’s frontline work. Your donation goes into a fund which is used to support the most urgent work. For example, a $35 gift can provide a blanket for a rescued child, but your gift could just as easily be part of a family’s story of rescue, or help pay for a child’s education. Each contribution goes toward our mission, to protect vulnerable people from violence and slavery, and restore hope.

Every gift helps make the little things possible again – safety, laughter, learning, and rest. Thank you for standing with survivors and helping make freedom last.

Got other questions? We have an FAQ page here with more information. Otherwise, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team. We’d love to hear from you.
[email protected]