Our Story
About Magdalene Hope
A Christ-centered ministry bringing hope, healing, and restoration to women and children impacted by trafficking and exploitation.
Our Purpose
Our Mission
Our mission is to bring Heaven to earth by eradicating sex trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation locally, regionally, and globally through the power, hope, and love of Jesus Christ.
How We Began
How Magdalene Hope Began
Magdalene Hope began in 2009 out of a desire to minister to women working in the commercial sex industry in Bakersfield, California.
Since then, the ministry has grown through outreach, education, recovery support, safe shelter, and community partnerships — serving in Bakersfield with ministry connections in Las Vegas, Tijuana Mexico, and the Central Coast of California.
Our Founder
Founded by Dr. Doug Bennett
Dr. Doug Bennett founded Magdalene Hope after his own life was transformed by Jesus Christ.
Doug was born in Bakersfield and raised on the east side of town. After a 22-year battle with drugs, he found Jesus and was radically filled with the Holy Spirit in 2004.
In 2009, he began Magdalene Hope to reach women working in the commercial sex industry in and around Bakersfield's red-light district.
We are proud to open the doors to a space dedicated to helping women reclaim their lives and discover their potential.
— Dr. Doug Bennett
Our Journey
A Growing Ministry of Hope
Magdalene Hope begins in Bakersfield, California.
Restoration Ranch opens as a safe shelter for women seeking a way out of the commercial sex industry.
Magdalene Hope co-produces The Trafficked Life, a documentary focused mainly on human trafficking in Kern County, California.
Magdalene Hope addressed special committees of the California State Senate and Assembly regarding two human trafficking bills.
The Bakersfield Women's Center opens as a safe space for women to access resources, support, meals, clothing, counseling, prayer, and rest.
Our Vision
Vision
Our vision is to bring the hope and unconditional love of Jesus Christ through a personal relationship to individuals working in the commercial sex industry.
Our Foundation
Our Work Is Rooted in Christ
Magdalene Hope is a Christ-centered organization. We believe every person is created with value, dignity, and purpose. We believe healing is possible. We believe freedom is possible.
We believe the love of Jesus Christ can reach people in the darkest places and bring them into restoration. We serve with compassion, humility, and unconditional love.
Help Us Bring Hope to More Women
Magdalene Hope's work is made possible by people who give, volunteer, pray, and partner with us.