The Canadian Centre to End Human Trafficking is deeply concerned by the recent report that more than 80,000 people were homeless in Ontario last year. The report, released by the Association of Municipalities of Ontario, provides compelling evidence that we have a long way to go to address Canada’s housing and homelessness crisis. The Centre has been calling on all levels of government to increase investments and fast-track processes to build more housing, shelters and other supports for vulnerable Canadians.
Growing evidence demonstrates strong linkages between homelessness, housing precarity, and human trafficking. Lack of access to secure and safe housing creates significant emotional, financial, and physical vulnerabilities that traffickers exploit. Once in a trafficking situation, the widespread lack of appropriate short, medium and long-term housing is the most significant barrier to leaving. Far too many are forced to remain with their traffickers or enter another exploitative relationship if permanent and safe housing is not available. A range of safe, secure, and affordable housing options is critical to disrupting human trafficking. It is essential for protecting people from being exploited, helps victims exit their trafficking situation, and creates stability for survivors as they recover. Housing, therefore, must be a priority in local, provincial, and federal responses to human trafficking in Canada.