Christ Church Episcopal, Triune Mercy Center, and Bon Secours St. Francis Health System joined forces in 2016 to provide help and encouragement to women survivors of sex trafficking, prostitution and addiction.
Jasmine Road is a two year residential program, the first of its kind in Greenville. The safe house opened its doors in May 2018. Jasmine Road is modeled after Thistle Farms, a Nashville non-profit began by an Episcopal priest over twenty years ago. Greenville joins over forty Thistle Farms residential agencies across the country. “Jasmine Road’s Mission is to provide a path of healing and employment for women survivors of sex trafficking, prostitution, and addiction.” Their vision is that “Jasmine Road will be known as a loving community that offers women opportunities to flourish, one life at a time.”
Every year, the South Carolina Secretary of State chooses “organizations that represent some of the most efficient and effective charities in South Carolina.” These non-profits are recognized with an Angel award. Jasmine Road was a 2023 Angel.
My introduction to this wonderful program was a segment on Access Carolina, a daily local television show, highlighting Jasmine Kitchen. It’s described as a “nurturing and safe gathering place for our entire community to share healthy meals together and be a part of something bigger.”
Jasmine Kitchen supports the mission of Jasmine Road by providing job opportunities for residents and graduates. Women may choose to work in the restaurant or contribute by making jewelry or candles. The creativity jewelry making inspires is a great way for women to heal and grow. Sometimes essential oils are used along with the stones when making bracelets. These meaningful jobs help survivors feel like contributing members of society, and aid in their recovery process.
Jasmine Kitchen, open 11am-2:30pm, Monday thru Saturday, is located at 503 Augusta Street in Downtown Greenville. The cafe serves soups, salads, sandwiches and vegan dishes. Diners can top off their meal with cake or cookies. A perfect spot for families, the menu offers choices just for kids. With Spring on the horizon, Jasmine Kitchen offers outdoor seating.
We’re always looking for locally owned eateries to support. Jasmine Kitchen is not only locally owned, but run by a non-profit benefiting abused women. I have passed this spot more times than I can count, but had no idea it was so much more than a cozy, yellow cafe.
Shoppers can find hand-made gifts and candles on-line. Take time to visit their website here and support this talented community!