Sask. government saves human-trafficking response program in Saskatoon

The Saskatchewan government has stepped in to ensure the continued operation of a police-run Human Trafficking Response Team (HTRT) in Saskatoon, following the expiration of federal funding. The Saskatoon Police Service (SPS) had been using its own funds for the past five months to keep the vital service operational. The HTRT collaborates with Victim Services to connect survivors of human trafficking with support, aiming to break cycles of abuse and aid investigators. "It was unfortunate that the federal government did back away from the table with the funding of these positions," stated Saskatchewan Justice Minister Tim McLeod. "However, we were able to secure the funding through the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence to continue these very important positions." The new provincial commitment amounts to $160,000, which is a partnership between the province and the federal government. However, this is not a permanent solution, as future funding remains unconfirmed. McLeod expressed hope that the federal government's recent announcement of an additional $600 million for related programs over four years would prioritize the continuation of existing initiatives like the HTRT. Saskatoon Police Chief Cam McBride had previously expressed anxiety over the risk to the program's work after its value had been established. Another organization, Hope Restored, also lost federal funding and is receiving provincial support through the same action plan, which expires next year. The Department of Justice Canada stated that funding through the Victims Fund is typically project-based and time-limited.

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It was unfortunate that the federal government did back away from the table with the funding of these positions. However, we were able to secure the funding through the National Action Plan to End Gender-Based Violence to continue these very important positions.