February 22, 2024 – Today, on National Human Trafficking Awareness Day, Peel Region is announcing that they are joining forces with OneChild to tackle human trafficking head-on.
Human trafficking is a serious crime affecting mostly young women, with under-reported cases of male victims. Rhonelle Bruder, a survivor and advocate produced a video called ‘What is Sex Trafficking’ to help educate parents, caregivers and school-aged children.
OneChild Partnership
OneChild is an organization dedicated to empowering a movement of children and youth to lead the fight against the sexual exploitation of children, including child sex trafficking.
At the core of this partnership with Peel Region is OneChild’s ‘#Beh1ndTheScr3ens’ campaign, which educates youth about online predators. Together, they’re amplifying this message in local Cineplex theatres, spreading awareness across the region.
Cheryl Perera, Founder of OneChild, stresses the urgency to reach children before predators do: “These videos have been used as a prevention tool for law enforcement, agencies, and in classrooms to spark discussions with students. Now, we are delighted to be collaborating with Peel Region to ensure, yet another efficient way to reach children before predators do.”
Sean Baird, Commissioner of Human Services, expresses pride in expanding awareness efforts with OneChild: “Our partnership with OneChild builds on the partnerships Peel Region has formed to support a comprehensive approach in the fight against human trafficking, which includes support for victims and awareness efforts that prevent victimization.”
Peel Region Action on Human Trafficking
Peel Region emphasizes collaboration with community partners to fight human trafficking and support victims. Peel’s strategy includes prevention, intervention, and support for victims and survivors.
Key initiatives involve education programs and integrated services like nCourage, providing trauma counseling and housing, all free of charge.
Peel Region has also increased supportive housing for victims and survivors to help transition them out. The Elizabeth Fry Hope and Help for Women provides the emergency and transitional housing.
The Peel Region Anti-Human Sex Trafficking Task Force aims to secure funding and advocate for action beyond Peel. It includes members ranging from police, medical experts, legal advice, university representatives, and affected communities like Native services.
Their commitment underscores a collective effort to combat this heinous crime and protect vulnerable individuals.
Peel Region urges anyone affected or aware of trafficking to contact the Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline 1-833-900-1010.
If you would like more information about the Peel Human Sex Trafficking Strategy or to receive a copy of the resource guide titled ‘From Concept to Action: A Strategy to Address Human Sex trafficking in Peel (May 2021)’, email [email protected]
