'Major issue': Local victim services warn of human trafficking

North Simcoe Victim Services (NSVS) will mark Anti-Human Trafficking Awareness Week Feb 20 to 23.

Client services co-ordinator Mandy Davison says NSVS will use the week as an opportunity to prepare resources and kits that will be made available to victims of human trafficking.

“We don’t see individuals who are making appointments to come see us,” she said. “They usually just end up at our door with nothing more than what they have on their backs.”

February 22 is Human Trafficking Awareness Day – up until the end of the Month, NSVS is raising funds and gathering donations of new/unused items in order to put together Human Trafficking Support Kits.

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— North Simcoe Victim Services (@NorthSimcoeVS) February 17, 2023

She says victims of human trafficking are typically fleeing highly dangerous situations and are taking a leap of faith when they seek support.

“Us being able to get them seasonally appropriate clothes, food, and a place for them to go is one of the biggest steps we can take to make them feel supported,” she said. “That’s why we want to get these kits ready for when they come to us.”

Human trafficking happens more than people realize, she said — including in the Orillia area.

“To give people knowledge of what is happening can create support,” she said. “Not only sex trafficking, but labour trafficking as well is something we see in this area.”

NSVS has learned over the years a lot of people don’t think human trafficking happens in Orillia, but Davison says it is a "major issue." For those who have fallen victim, she says, it’s important to get to safety.

“Reach out to OPP or victim services. Anything to take that initial step, we can help with and do what we can to support,” she said.

“We understand what people are going to need when they come to us. We can make sure people get to a safe place and have continued support while they are with us.”

NSVS is in need of volunteers to support people dealing with traumatic situations such as human trafficking.

“People need support as soon as possible,” Davison said. “Every moment that they are accessing help, they are also worried about getting caught and the repercussions.”

More information is about getting involved with NSVS is available here.