Resources

Unfortunately, sex trafficking is a multi-billion dollar industry. It is more lucrative than guns or drugs: traffickers can make over $280,000 per year by controlling one victim¹

• The average age of victims is 17, but they can be as young as 13, and as young as 8 for Indigenous girls²
• 90% of victims are female³ however boys can be trafficked too
• Anyone can be trafficked regardless of age, gender, race, culture, orientation or neighbourhood

A common misconception is that there are clear and easy steps to exiting trafficking, especially if the victim is not being physically held captive. But it is not easy and often takes multiple attempts because:

• Victims may not recognize that they're being trafficked
• A victim may have an attachment to the trafficker or be dependent on them for basic needs
• There can be shame and fear of judgement from society
• They could be afraid of their trafficker or the justice system
• They may be bound by threats towards their loved ones
• There could be lack of support available to help them exit and to rebuild their lives afterwards. Victims escaping or exiting sex trafficking often face a long and difficult process when trying to start their lives over

It is important to note young men and boys may face an added layer of gender stereotypes that make it more challenging for them to leave.

It's about making students aware, not afraid.  The more they know, the more they can protect themselves and watch out for their friends.  This includes:

• Believing that it can happen to anyone in any community. It's not just what the movies depict.
• Learning about the warning signs so you can protect yourself and watch out for friends. It's often easier to notice these signs with someone else.
• Create a safety plan for yourself before going out and learn how to protect yourself online.
• If something does not feel right, tell someone. Ensure you have trusted adults in your life - both at home and in school.
• Know where to get help. Be aware of the community agencies available for support, especially the confidential 24/7 Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline.

• If you are in imminent danger, call 911 or your local police
• Call the confidential 24/7 Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-833-900-1010 or visit canadianhumantraffickinghotline.ca to access information about sex trafficking, local support services, law enforcement and emergency services across the country
• To find services in your community, visit the Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline's National Referral Directory.
• Call Covenant House at 416-593-4849 or toll free at 1-800-435-7308 or email the anti-trafficking team at endht@covenanthouse.ca (Monday- Friday, 9 am-6 pm). We provide young women with the health care and housing services needed to recover, heal from intensive trauma and move forward with their lives.  Covenant House welcomes young people between the ages of 16-24 regardless of race, religion, gender identity or sexual orientation. We also provide referrals to other community-related services.

• Keep checking in, create a space that allows your friend to share what's happening and try to be non-judgemental. Survivors told us that they were embarrassed and that the stigma of being trafficked often prevented them for reaching out for help.
• Take note of the red flags you are seeing and reach out to a trusted adult at home or in school for help. It is important to pay attention, but it is also important to get help. If you do suspect your friend is being trafficked, please don't confront them or investigate yourself as you may be putting both lives at risk
• Telling an adult does not make you a bad friend - it is imperative for your friend's safety