Every day, young people are targeted by traffickers, and those involved in the child welfare system are particularly vulnerable. Today, on Human Trafficking Awareness Day, our Agency reflects on the importance of our role as a Children’s Aid Society in supporting children, youth and their families who are involved with or at risk of human trafficking. This day serves as a crucial reminder of the risks faced by vulnerable children and youth, and reinforces our commitment to their safety, protection and well-being.
At the Children’s Aid Society of Toronto we are committed to working alongside social service agencies and community partners to build strong networks that support at-risk youth and families.
In 2023, the large majority (85 per cent) of human trafficking incidents in Canada were reported in census metropolitan areas (CMAs). Similarly, from 2013 to 2023, more than 8 in 10 incidents of human trafficking (86 per cent) were reported to police in CMAs. Notably, five CMAs accounted for almost half (45 per cent) of all police-reported incidents of human trafficking in Canada, with Toronto alone representing 20% of all incidents. (Source: Statistics Canada)
Victims of human trafficking often include children and youth. From 2013 to 2023, 23 per cent of victims of police-reported human trafficking in Canada were aged 17 and younger, 42 per cent were between 18-24, and 23 per cent were between 25-34. We also know that children and youth involved in the child welfare system are particularly at risk. In light of this, in 2021, the Child, Youth and Family Services Act was amended to include risk of involvement or involvement in sex trafficking as grounds for protection.
At CAST, we’re committed to ongoing community education, advocacy and collaboration to ensure that children and youth in our care are protected from harm and risks. Through partnerships with community organizations, law enforcement, and government bodies, we play a crucial role in identifying risk factors, providing supports, and raising awareness about human trafficking.
We also work with our staff to provide training and access to information about our human trafficking strategy, training opportunities, committee initiatives, and relevant provincial legislation.
As part of these efforts, our Chief Executive Officer, Lisa Tomlinson joined Develle Morrison on AM 640, for the Toronto This Weekend show to discuss the significance of Human Trafficking Awareness Day, the intersection of human trafficking and child welfare, the work we do to support families, warning signs, and supports available in the community.
Listen to the interview here.
