Victim Services of Kingston and Frontenac revealed that 75% of human trafficking survivors they assist had previously sought help from the organization. Executive director Paula Laughlin highlighted the concerning trend of individuals repeatedly seeking support and experiencing re-traumatization. Recognizing the need for long-term assistance, the organization launched EMBER, an empowerment-focused initiative, to address gaps in support services and prevent traffickers from exploiting vulnerabilities.
Last year, over 200 self-identified human trafficking victims sought aid at Kingston Police headquarters, with a significant proportion being Indigenous and having intellectual disabilities, increasing their susceptibility. Annette Cadieux, leading the regional response to human trafficking, attributed the rise in trafficking cases to Kingston’s strategic location along the Highway 401 route. Despite escalating numbers and a trend of younger victims, community awareness remains lacking.
Statistics from 2014 to 2024 indicated 5,070 reported cases of human trafficking in Canada, primarily involving multiple violations related to the sex trade and physical assault, with 93% of victims being female, predominantly under 25 years old. The team acknowledged the challenge of breaking the cycle of victimization and emphasized EMBER as a beacon of hope for survivors to break free and envision a brighter future.
Recognizing the cyclical nature of exploitation, Indigenous health nurse Anne Marie Batten highlighted the importance of EMBER in providing a supportive environment for victims to rebuild their lives. By offering a safety net and mentorship opportunities, the initiative aims to empower survivors and foster community support. EMBER’s focus on holistic healing and skill-building endeavors to create a resilient community network to aid survivors in their journey towards independence and recovery.