Calgary (Rajeev Sharma): The Alberta government is allocating $5.5 million to strengthen efforts against human trafficking and expand support for victims and survivors across the province.
The funding will be distributed through the Combatting Trafficking in Persons (CTIP) grant in partnership with the Alberta Centre to End Trafficking in Persons. The initiative is intended to help prevent trafficking, protect people at risk and improve access to services for those seeking to escape exploitation.
Human trafficking often involves the exploitation of vulnerable people through coercion, manipulation, violence or substance use. Provincial officials said the latest investment will help community organisations respond more effectively while supporting survivors as they work to rebuild their lives.
Public Safety and Emergency Services Minister Mike Ellis said the funding will assist organisations working directly with victims and help raise awareness about the nature and impact of trafficking.
Of the total allocation, approximately $2.7 million will be provided through a new stabilization grant stream to organisations already delivering critical services to trafficking victims and survivors. The recipients were selected in consultation with the Alberta Centre and include organisations that have received CTIP funding consistently since the programme began in 2024-25.
The organisations receiving this funding are Alberta Law Enforcement Response Teams (ALERT), Catholic Social Services, HER Victory Society, Narrow Road Society, REACH Edmonton, RESET Society of Calgary, the Salvation Army and Waypoints Community Services Association.
These organisations will not have to submit a new application for funding during the current fiscal year. The stabilization funding will support essential services, including assistance with housing and other needs faced by survivors.
The remaining $2.8 million will be distributed through an open application process. Eligible projects will focus on helping people leave trafficking situations, supporting recovery, increasing public awareness and improving cooperation among organisations.
The funding process will also prioritise trauma-informed and survivor-focused approaches to service delivery.
Paul Brandt, chair of the Alberta Centre to End Trafficking in Persons, said feedback from organisations across the province has highlighted the need to identify effective programmes, address gaps and make better use of available resources.
The Alberta government said it will continue working with the provincial centre to strengthen coordination and ensure anti-trafficking resources are directed toward communities and individuals requiring support.
