Okaadenige

Anti-Human Trafficking Program

Prevention. Awareness. Support.

Okaadenige Anti-Human Trafficking

About Human Trafficking

Human trafficking, one of the fastest-growing crimes worldwide, is a significant problem in Ontario, particularly in regards to sexual exploitation. This crime, often referred to as sex trafficking, affects young women and girls, though boys, men, and Two-Spirited individuals are also at risk. In fact, the average age of recruitment into sex trafficking is 13 years old, and over 70% of human trafficking victims identified by police are under the age of 25. Approximately two-thirds of police-reported human trafficking cases in Canada occur in Ontario.

Human trafficking is particularly harmful to Indigenous communities, who are disproportionately affected. The issue of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG) is closely related to this crime, as Indigenous communities are often targeted and exploited due to systemic racism and discrimination.


The Program

The Okaadenige program is a trauma and culturally informed, strength-based program for survivors, victims, or those at-risk of human trafficking and sexual exploitation.

Okaadenige, an Ojibwe word that means “he or she braids things,” represents Atlohsa’s three-strand approach to combatting human trafficking: prevention, awareness, and support services.


Our Services

One of the key components of the Okaadenige program is our private and safe survivor circle, which provides a space for participants to rebuild their bundles and access the healing support they need. In addition to this group support, we also offer one-on-one support and access to traditional support services.

Okaadenige is also dedicated to preventing and raising awareness about human trafficking and sexual exploitation through educational programs. These programs work to educate the community about the realities of these crimes and provide resources to help people stay safe and informed.

The program is open to women, men, and youth, and the team is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for all participants.

      We know it can be difficult to reach out. You are not alone.

      If you or someone you know has been impacted by human trafficking, we are here to support you. Please reach out to Okaadenige at 226-559-1847 or okaadenige@atlohsa.com

      Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline: 1-800-900-1010

      The Need is Great

      Indigenous women only make up 4% of the Canadian population, yet they account for over 50% of trafficking victims today. The Okaadenige Program provides prevention, support, awareness through education and ongoing support to our communities and those within.