In the city of Almaty lies a place known as one of the poorest and most difficult areas — a brothel called “Keys to Cleanliness.” Despite its name, it has long carried a dark reputation, marked by poverty, crime, and despair.
Our team first began visiting this brothel in 2012, building relationships with the women who worked there. The women’s stories were as diverse as they were heartbreaking — some had entered the industry before they turned 18, while others were grandmothers. Many had come from across Central Asia, drawn by promises that turned out to be empty.
In recent years, government laws around sex work have changed, leading to the closure of many brothels. When Keys to Cleanliness was forced to shut down, most of the younger women left to seek other opportunities. Only the older women — those with nowhere else to go — remained behind.
For months, our team was unable to visit due to new restrictions and increased police presence. During that time, we began working with other brothels in different parts of the city. But when ownership changed hands and doors closed to us once again, we found ourselves thinking about Keys to Cleanliness.
One day, we decided to return — unsure of what we would find. At first, the welcome was uneasy. The women had turned on religious music and were performing rituals they described as protection against harm or to bring in clients. Our team felt fear and uncertainty, yet we chose to return.
On our second visit, something began to change. The women recognized us — and despite the time that had passed, they welcomed us back. They began to open up, sharing why they performed the rituals and what they feared. Soon, they invited us to share meals with them. Each visit became a time to listen, to pray, and to talk about hope, faith, and safety that doesn’t depend on superstition.
We continue to visit regularly — not with expectations of quick change, but with hearts committed to love. We show care through small things: a hug, eye contact, a shared meal, a gift.
We believe that this is what it means to love bravely — to go where few will go, to keep showing up, and to remind these women that they are seen, valued, and deeply loved by God.
