Peel Region, Ontario is the second-largest municipality in the Greater Toronto Area. It’s located in Canada's largest economic area, borders the United States, has an airport, and has 5 major highways passing through. Peel continues to be a hot spot for sexual exploitation and is facing various economic crises, which have increased risks and vulnerabilities in its community. Housing continues to be a crisis, which adds to the challenges and increases risk and vulnerabilities for youth experiencing homelessness. Recognizing and understanding the intersectionality of youth homelessness and sexual exploitation, participants will take away a comprehensive understanding of the keys to providing intervention and establishing prevention for exploitation within youth shelters. Through operating Peel’s youth shelters and nCourage (Peel’s Anti-Human Trafficking Integrated Service Hub), Our Place Peel will shed light on the reality, risks, and vulnerabilities when youth experience homelessness. Youth continue to be an overrepresented group in homelessness and exploitation. The presenter will explore policies, interventions, and practices that support young people through their journey to healing and housing. Attendees will take with them the importance of community collaboration, client-centered/led work, and advocacy for systems change.
Trigger Warning: This presentation contains information (written, spoken, or visual) that may be triggering or (re)traumatizing to attendees.
Dani Mills is the Director of Community Outreach and Strategic Partnerships with Our Place Peel. Dani’s oversees nCourage – Anti-Human Trafficking Integrated Service Hub, and Outreach (Housing, Natural Supports). Dani coordinates partnerships and pathways to increase access to supports for victims/ survivors, individuals at-risk of human sex trafficking, and youth homelessness.