For Caregivers

Sex trafficking is happening in communities all across Canada.  At Covenant House, we increasingly hear from caregivers wanting to know how to protect their children and what to do if they suspect something.

Whether it is prevention or supporting a child that is involved in or exiting trafficking, caregivers play a critical role.

Given that victims are being recruited as young as 131, awareness and education at a young age are essential.  This can start at home.

For those with a child involved in sex trafficking, there is no right or wrong approach. Every family is different, every journey is unique.

We hope that our learnings from working with survivors for nearly 40 years can help in your journey and connect you with the resources needed to support your family.

Here are some topics to help you get started:

If you or someone you know is being trafficked or exploited, get support now.

1. Gabriele, F., et al. (2014). The Incidence of Human Trafficking in Ontario, Ontario Coalition Research Initiative

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Featured Topics

A smiling woman holds her daughter protectively, in their home.

We regularly hear from caregivers wanting to know how to protect their children from sex trafficking. This guide provides essential information, from warning signs to how to get help.

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For Caregivers: Topics

A smiling woman holds her daughter protectively, in their home.

We regularly hear from caregivers wanting to know how to protect their children from sex trafficking. This guide provides essential information, from warning signs to how to get help.

woman and teen girl sitting on couch talking

The more your child knows about sex trafficking, the better equipped they are to protect themselves. Learn how to get the conversation started with your child. Information is available in the form of a downloadable caregiver guide and youth postcard.

teen girl laying on her bed sending a text on her phone

Traffickers are increasingly finding victims online through social media, gaming sites and chat rooms. Learn more about why online luring is increasing and key findings of our national research study that explores the attitudes and behaviors that put teen girls at risk for trafficking.

woman using laptop with privacy settings on laptop screen

The online world is constantly changing, and talking to your child about online safety is an important step in protecting them from traffickers. Here are some online safety tips, including privacy settings, sharing personal information and ground rules you can establish to help your child stay safe.

girl in the city wearing winter coat with head down sending a text message

A safety plan, created with your child and suited to their age, can help empower them with tools to prevent risky encounters and get help if they are in unsafe situations. Here are some planning tips that can help you create a well-rounded safety plan with your child.

Worried couple reading bad news together on the phone sitting on a sofa

Detecting the signs of trafficking can be difficult and there can be many explanations for the behaviours you are seeing. If you feel that something isn't right, here are some next steps you can follow to address the situation with your child.

mother comforting her upset teen daughter after realizing she has been trafficked

Learning that your child is being trafficked can be devastating, leaving you confused and with a slew of emotions. Learn some of the ways you can support your child, plan safety for the family, and get help.

group of people sitting in a circle holding hands

The entire family can be impacted when a child is being trafficked. Learn more about the impact of trafficking, steps to take to ensure safety of all family members and where to get help.

Teenage girl talks with therapist about the impact of trafficking on her family

If you or someone you know is being trafficked or exploited, access supports here.

blue-haired young girl smiling looking into camera

Read key findings from our national study with teen girls about the behaviors and attitudes that may put them at greater risk for sex trafficking. Also read about our study with survivors of sex trafficking and what they say made them more vulnerable to being lured and affected their ability to leave once trafficked.

Woman formulating a plan on a glass board

Working with survivors, police and community partners to identify service needs, Covenant House developed an anti-trafficking plan in 2016. Learn about this plan, our Urban Response Model, which includes prevention, direct services for survivors and research and evaluation.

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