Peel Region has taken a significant step in the fight against human trafficking with the launch of a new anti-human-trafficking hub at Toronto Pearson International Airport, one of Canada’s busiest transportation gateways and a key location within a region identified as a high-risk corridor for trafficking activity.
The new hub is designed to improve the identification of victims, strengthen collaboration among agencies, and disrupt the movement of individuals being trafficked through the Greater Toronto Area. Regional officials say the airport location will play a critical role in enhancing rapid response efforts and providing support to vulnerable individuals who may be at risk of exploitation.
The opening of the hub comes as Peel Region continues to advocate for additional provincial funding to support adult survivors of human trafficking. A recent report presented to Peel Regional Council highlights growing concerns about service gaps, particularly for survivors aged 25 and older.
According to the report, more than half of the clients previously served through nCourage, Peel Region’s frontline anti-human-trafficking program, were adults over the age of 25. However, changes to provincial program mandates have shifted the primary focus toward supporting youth between the ages of 12 and 24, leaving fewer dedicated services available for older survivors.
While youth remain among the most vulnerable populations, officials acknowledge that adult survivors continue to require specialized support, housing assistance, counselling, and case management services to rebuild their lives after escaping trafficking situations.
Human trafficking remains one of Canada’s most serious and hidden crimes. Provincial statistics indicate that nearly two-thirds of victims identified by police are under the age of 25, while the average age at which victims are recruited into trafficking is just 13 years old. Experts describe trafficking as a form of modern-day slavery that often targets vulnerable individuals through manipulation, coercion, deception, and violence.
To address service gaps for adult survivors, Peel Children’s Aid Society, which recently assumed leadership of the nCourage program, has established partnerships with several community organizations. These collaborations will help ensure that adults aged 25 and older continue to receive support through agencies such as Victim Services of Peel and Caledon Dufferin Victim Services.
The new Pearson Airport hub will be staffed by professionals from nCourage, Peel Children’s Aid Society, and the Child Welfare Immigration Centre of Excellence. The team will work closely with airport authorities, the Canada Border Services Agency, and police services to coordinate immediate responses when potential trafficking situations are identified.
Officials note that while international trafficking cases do occur, much of Ontario’s human trafficking activity takes place within the province itself, particularly along major transportation routes and the 400-series highway network. Criminal organizations often move victims between communities to isolate them, making transportation hubs and major highways critical areas for intervention.
The airport-based initiative aims to improve communication among agencies, enhance victim identification efforts, and provide quicker access to support services when individuals are rescued or seek assistance.
Peel Region is also continuing discussions with the provincial government to secure sustainable funding for adult survivors. Regional officials are seeking approximately $100,000 annually to support a dedicated caseworker position and provide housing assistance for survivors over the age of 25. The funding would strengthen partnerships with community organizations and ensure that adult victims have access to the services necessary for recovery and reintegration.
Advocates say early intervention remains one of the most effective tools in preventing human trafficking. By integrating anti-trafficking services within Peel Children’s Aid Society, frontline workers gain greater access to schools, youth programs, community organizations, and child welfare services, allowing them to identify risks earlier and provide support before exploitation occurs.
The opening of the Pearson Airport hub represents another important step in Peel Region’s ongoing efforts to combat human trafficking, protect vulnerable individuals, and provide meaningful support to survivors. Community leaders hope the initiative will strengthen prevention efforts, improve victim support services, and help bring greater awareness to an issue that often remains hidden from public view.
Anyone seeking assistance or information can contact nCourage directly or reach the Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline, which operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, providing confidential support and resources to victims and concerned community members.