Alberta Expands Funding to Combat Human Trafficking on National Awareness Day

February 22 marks National Human Trafficking Awareness Day, and Alberta’s government is reaffirming its commitment to combatting one of the most serious violations of human rights. Human trafficking exploits vulnerable individuals through forced labour, sexual exploitation and other forms of abuse, leaving lasting trauma on victims, families and communities across the province.

To strengthen prevention and survivor supports, the Government of Alberta is expanding funding through its Combatting Trafficking in Persons grant, introduced in December 2024. Since its launch, organizations across Alberta have applied for assistance, with 19 groups now set to receive funding to enhance their critical anti-trafficking efforts.

The province is funding 19 organizations to strengthen prevention, protection and survivor empowerment efforts across Alberta.

Strengthening Prevention, Protection and Empowerment

The grant program focuses on three key pillars:

• Prevention: Increasing public awareness of trafficking warning signs, strengthening community engagement and improving collaboration among agencies.
• Protection: Providing emergency assistance and helping victims navigate legal, housing and health-care systems.
• Empowerment: Supporting survivors through peer networks, advocacy and skill-building programs to rebuild stable, independent lives.

Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Services Mike Ellis emphasized the importance of holding traffickers accountable while expanding support systems for survivors. He noted that community-based organizations play a vital role in disrupting exploitation networks and helping vulnerable individuals recover.

Community Partnerships at the Core

Collaboration between law enforcement, non-profits and Indigenous communities remains central to Alberta’s strategy. Priority funding was given to initiatives that include individuals with lived experience and Indigenous-led programs to ensure culturally relevant, survivor-centered services.

Among the organizations receiving support is #NotInMyCity, founded by Canadian country artist Paul Brandt, who also co-chairs the Alberta Centre to End Trafficking in Persons. Brandt said the initiative strengthens community-led efforts focused on disrupting trafficking networks and empowering survivors.

The RESET Society of Calgary will use funding to reduce waitlists and expand trauma-informed programs for survivors transitioning out of sex trafficking situations. Meanwhile, the Alberta Native Friendship Centres Association will continue prevention work within Indigenous friendship centre communities across the province.

A Survivor-Centered Approach

By investing in prevention strategies and survivor empowerment, Alberta aims to address the root causes of trafficking while building stronger, more resilient communities. Officials say the expanded funding ensures frontline agencies have the tools needed to provide specialized services and long-term support for those affected.

As Alberta marks National Human Trafficking Awareness Day, the province reiterates its commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals and ensuring survivors receive the care and resources necessary to rebuild their lives.