The Alberta government marked Feb. 22 as National Human Trafficking Awareness Day by funding 19 agencies supporting the cause.
The provincial government is taking action through the Combating Trafficking in Persons Grant. Introduced in December 2024, the grant supports groups working to prevent trafficking, protect at-risk individuals, and help survivors rebuild their lives.
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“Human trafficking leaves lasting scars on victims, survivors and communities,” said Mike Ellis, minister of public safety and emergency services.
“We are taking a strong stance against traffickers and bolstering support networks for survivors.”
Meanwhile, the grants focus on three key areas:
- prevention
- protection
- empowerment
Funded projects will increase public awareness, support victims and provide survivors with recovery resources.
Organizations receiving funding include The Alberta Centre to End Trafficking in Persons, RESET Society of Calgary and Alberta Native Friendship Centres Association (ANFCA).
“With the Alberta Centre leading the way, we now have a dedicated, community-led organization working in partnership with the Government of Alberta,” said Paul Brandt, co-chair of the Alberta Centre to End Trafficking in Persons.
“This centre brings hope for vulnerable individuals and a safer future for all Albertans.”
ANFCA also looks forward to the funding.
“ANFCA is thankful to the Alberta government for its ongoing commitment to address human trafficking,” said Jeannette MacInnis, ANFCA’s director of partnerships. “We look forward to working in partnership with our member friendship centres and stakeholders.”
The government prioritized initiatives that include people with lived experience of human trafficking and Indigenous-led programs. The hope is to ensure funding as well as cultural sensitivity in doing so.
Organizations eligible for the grant must be in the province, including registered non-profits, community-based coalitions, and Indigenous communities.
The province is committed to disrupting trafficking networks, supporting survivors and making communities safer.
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