Thanks, Joy.
EFry supports over 5,000 women and girls annually who are at risk of violence; many of them are survivors. Our efforts focus on prevention, support, reintegration and advocacy. Approximately two-thirds of police-reported human trafficking cases in Canada occur in Ontario, and 62% originate in the greater Toronto area, with Peel being a major corridor for this activity. It primarily impacts women and girls, with the average age of victims being between 12 and 24 years old.
Since 2012, we have provided anti-human sex trafficking programs that align with provincial and regional strategies and that focus on the national pillars of empowerment, prevention, protection and partnership. EFry develops and provides a variety of programs and workshops for schools and community partners on awareness and prevention, including a prevention program for female-identifying youth that empowers them to understand and avoid recruitment tactics, addresses social media and online safety, and creates awareness on how to access help.
We also have a program for young men that addresses the vital role males play in ending gender-based violence, sexual exploitation and trafficking.
EFry provides case management support for at-risk, exploited and trafficked individuals. As part of the nCourage hub, we provide housing for survivors through the Bonnie McPhee safe house and the Peel transitional house.
Despite Peel's attention to, and resourcing for, anti-human trafficking, we still do not have the full continuum of supports required. Supports are highly dependent on sustainable funding that goes beyond three-year cycles to ensure gaps are addressed and services maintained.
Housing continues to be a major barrier for survivors. A dedicated strategy is needed that addresses access to immediate beds, as well as independent housing and support services within housing for trauma, mental health and addiction. This is one of the most fundamental supports needed to ensure victims and survivors exit and do not return to traffickers.
Finally, human trafficking is transitory and easily disguised. Canada needs more awareness on this issue. This includes investments in prevention and awareness activities that share information on how to protect against it and where to seek help, as well as initiatives to standardize anti-human trafficking curriculums in schools. We have included further details on our recommendations in our brief.
Both Joy and I thank the committee for providing us with this opportunity to present here, and we welcome any questions you may have.