Episode 41: Anne Polencheck

Jul 13, 2023

Anne Polencheck is the Executive Director of New Name NFP, a ministry founded in 2009 that reaches out to women sexually exploited and trafficked in the Chicagoland area.  Anne has served with New Name since the beginning and has been leading the ministry since 2010.  Anne has a bachelor of science in Electrical Engineering and worked as a software engineer for over 20 years.  In 2013, she left her corporate job to stay home with her youngest daughter, allowing her more time to serve with New Name.  Anne has a heart for women to know how much Jesus loves them, right where they are at, and that they have great worth and value.  

In this episode, Anne shares her personal story of overcoming alcohol abuse and an eating disorder. Anne received a new mind and a renewed heart through the power of Christ and His love. She shares what sparked her passion to walk with women who are sexually exploited and trafficked. Anne provides insight into how women enter trafficking, the signs of trafficking, the process of healing, and practical tips for individuals and churches who desire to love women in the sex industry. 

Connect with Anne:

• New Name

• Bridal Boutique by New Name

Resources Mentioned:

• Terrify No More: Young Girls Held Captive and the Daring Undercover Operation to Win Their Freedom by Gary A. Haugen

• National Human Trafficking Hotline  [phone]

• Unlocking the Wounded Heart by Priscilla Lack

• Escaping the Devil’s Bedroom by Dawn Herzog Jewell

• International Justice Mission

• Scars & Stilettos by Harmony Dust

This Week’s Belt of Truth:
“The base of the cross is flat. Anyone can come to Jesus. The gift is free and is not based on you. The only thing based on you is to accept the free gift right where you are at. There is nothing you have to do in this moment differently. 

He does not make mistakes. God created you in His image. I care what's happened to you. I am sad about the suffering that you've been through, but that does not define who you are. Know that Jesus bore all of that on the cross.  

We can't understand this because we're human. But when He died on the cross, He died for every situation that you've been in, every torture, every abuse you’ve had to endure. He knows exactly what you are feeling and how it's affecting you. He knows the path out of darkness, and that is the truth.”- Anne Polencheck

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