About Us
OUR MISSION
At Rancho ni Cristo, our mission is to rescue, restore, and empower young girls who have survived the horrors of child trafficking and online exploitation.
Our ultimate goal is to nurture resilience and strength within each girl, enabling them to overcome their past and thrive as empowered individuals who can impact their communities positively. Through collaboration and dedication, we aim to transform lives and build a brighter future for all.
WELCOME TO THE CURE FOUNDATION
Started in 2024 and officially recognised by the IRS in 2025, the CURE Foundation is focused on fighting human trafficking. This serious issue affects millions of people every year, with billions of dollars being made from this illegal trade. We believe we can stop this together.
Our Mission
Human trafficking involves forcing people into work or sex against their will. Every year, millions suffer because of this, and a lot of money keeps it going. At CURE, we think we can end this problem by working together.
Where We Work
We focus on helping people in the Philippines and the USA. Our main activities are:
- Protection: We help keep vulnerable people safe and teach communities about the dangers of trafficking.
- Rescue: We work with local and international groups to rescue victims and give them immediate support.
- Empowerment: We offer counselling, job training, and education to help survivors rebuild their lives.
Join Us
This is not just a fight against crime; it’s a movement for change. We invite you to join us. By supporting us, you become part of a community dedicated to ending human trafficking.
Let's work together to create a future where everyone can live free and with dignity. Your help can make a big difference. Consider donating, volunteering, or sharing our mission with others. Together, we can make a real impact.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Jolene Porter-van Oost
Country Director of USA
Jolene was born in Cebu, Philippines and migrated to the United States with her family at the age of 12. She completed her Bachelors degree in International Relations at the Johns Hopkins University, and later got a paralegal certificate at Georgetown University. She also holds a Masters Degree in International Political Economy from American University. She worked in International Trade and Customs for several years before returning to the Philippines in 2015.
Jolene is currently the Administrator at C.U.R.E. Foundation, Inc., where she is actively involved in the operations of Rancho ni Cristo – an aftercare shelter that provides girls rescued out of Online Sexual Exploitation of Children (OSEC) with a safe place to grow and heal from the trauma of their past. Since it opened its doors in December 2015, Rancho ni Cristo has been “home” to about 50 girls. It is one of the few OSEC-specific shelters in the Philippines today.
For Jolene, serving at Rancho ni Cristo is a chance to be a part of something that is close to God's heart, and to change precious lives for the better. This is her way of contributing toward making a better Philippines for the next generation. She lives in Cebu City with her husband, Bart, and their two daughters, Emi and Ella; they also have a puppy named Rusty.
Bart Van Oost
Country Director of Philippines
Bart Van Oost is the Executive Director of Cure Foundation, Inc. in Cebu, Philippines, where he has led efforts against human trafficking since 2015. His leadership has been crucial in launching initiatives that focus on both prevention and survivor support. Bart has built strong partnerships with local and international organizations, significantly enhancing the foundation's impact.
With expertise in program management and fundraising,
Bart has secured essential resources, ensuring that every dollar is effectively utilized to create meaningful change in the lives of those affected by trafficking. His background in risk management at KBC Bank in Leuven, Belgium, provided a strong foundation for his current work, allowing him to apply strategic and analytical skills to complex humanitarian challenges.
Currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Christian Pastoral Counseling at NCI University in Florida, Bart continues to expand his ability to support those in need through counseling and pastoral care.
He is also a respected speaker, sharing his insights on social justice at institutions like De La Salle University and Ateneo de Manila University.
Bart Van Oost's dedication to combating human trafficking exemplifies how focused leadership and compassion can drive lasting change.
Amy Bennett Henwood
President
Amy Henwood is a dynamic real estate professional and the visionary co-founder of Journey Real Estate, a thriving brokerage she launched alongside a close friend. With her entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to service, Amy has built a career rooted in helping individuals and families find their perfect homes while fostering meaningful community connections.
Beyond her real estate expertise, Amy is deeply passionate about empowering young women, particularly those transitioning out of foster care. She dedicates her time and resources to mentoring and supporting these women as they build independent and fulfilling lives.
A steadfast supporter of the CURE Foundation in the Philippines, Amy has been an integral part of Rancho ni Cristo’s journey since its inception in 2015. Her unwavering commitment to the foundation’s mission continues to bring hope and transformation to survivors of trafficking.
Amy’s life is a testament to her belief in creating opportunities and empowering others to thrive, whether it’s in real estate, advocacy, or philanthropy.
Veronica Jenks
Treasurer
Veronica Jenks has her Masters in Social Work and has served with Eagles’ Wings for over 20 years. She is passionate about discipling and seeing people walk in the fullness of their calling in God, especially the younger generation. Veronica has traveled across America and in other nations leading hundreds of children in times of worship, prayer, and teaching. She has also traveled to Thailand, the Philippines and Holland to work with victims of human trafficking. Veronica is married to Stephen and through the gift of adoption, they have two beautiful children Shane and Abigail.
Laura Lynn Hughes
Secretary
Laura Lynn Hughes is an author, international speaker and teacher, and a human rights activist. Author of Choose Zoe: A Story of UnPlanned Parenthood and The Case for Life, Laura is represented by Ambassador Speakers speaking regularly about online sexual exploitation of children (OSEC) and human trafficking, sanctity of human life, pregnancy, and post-abortion trauma and recovery in conferences, schools, churches, and events, both nationally and internationally.
Laura is a board member for the CURE Foundation, USA and an advocate for a safe home for child survivors of online sexual exploitation. She is a board member and volunteer at Alpha Clinic in Vacaville, CA serving vulnerable pregnant women, and co-founder of A Movement of Love ministry.
A mother of five, Laura owns a photography studio, Images by Hughes, in northern California.
She has appeared on The Eric Metaxas Show and on Focus On The Family and The 700 Club. Laura is also a contributing writer to Focus on the Family and Christianity Today.