Associated Press

Associated Press

COLUMBUS

A central Ohio ministry is helping women who were exploited rid themselves of unwanted reminders of their past lives.

Survivors Ink raises money to cover up tattoos, scars and burns that were used to “brand” women as property of gangs, pimps or drug dealers. Thirty-two-year-old Jennifer Kempton founded the group after having her own tattoos covered as she recovered from a life of prostitution, abuse and drug addiction.

It’s become part of the nonprofit Gracehaven, a Central Ohio Youth for Christ ministry that works to eradicate child sex-trafficking. The Columbus Dispatch reports that tattoo artist Charles Waldo donates his labor, charging just for ink and studio rental.

Ten women have benefited from the program so far.

Tonetta Jackson, 38, was the latest to receive a free tattoo. She was pleased with the new artwork of a large flower, nestled between two smaller ones on her collarbone that covered a gang symbol.

“It is really beautiful,” she said. “It’s just good to get some kind of relief that I’ll be able to get a new start in life, to be able to look at myself a little bit differently than I did in the past. It was a very dark time in my past, so it’s been really amazing to have this experience.”

“Chuck just got rid of a demon,” Kempton said.

Kempton had one on her pelvis that said “Property of Salem.”

“Having to look in the mirror every day, and every time I got into the shower and saw these tattoos, it’s horrible for your self-worth,” Kempton said. “You see somebody else’s claim on your body, and it’s devastating. It’s a psychological form of bondage.”

Kempton said Survivors Ink pays $50 to $80 for tattoos that usually would cost $250 to $500.