The Issue

Human trafficking is as much of a problem in the Guelph/Wellington area as it is around the world. In Canada, primarily youth between the ages of 12 and 25 are affected. It is the third largest criminal activity after guns and drugs, according to Crime Stoppers. And contrary to popular opinion, 80 percent of human trafficking victims in this country are Canadians. Many of these victims are moved every few days between motels and strip clubs along Highway 401 and the QEW. 

A majority of the individuals that are lured into the sex trade are through “Romeo” pimps who sell a dream of money, love, and security. Trafficked persons make up a variety of individuals. Some are runaways, abandoned by their families, or foster kids lured straight out of group homes; others grow up in middle-income households and are recruited from high schools or house parties. Every person affected by this terrible crime with their own unique story.

While many organizations are working hard to support these survivors, currently, there are very few options for immediate and safe shelter. According to Elizabeth Kent, Executive Director of Victim Services, Wellington County, finding shelter for Human Trafficking survivors is extremely difficult, often the only resort is to put them into hotels – hotels often being the setting of their exploitation.

Elora House – A New Hope

The project’s immediate focus is to provide a safe-haven in Guelph/Wellington County for girls and women exploited by sex trafficking. Elora House will provide immediate lodging, food and clothing and will help connect them with community partners for all areas of counselling and support.

The Team

The Elora House Leadership Team is comprised of staff who have experience working with Human trafficking and domestic violence survivors, volunteers in the Guelph/Wellington Community including those who work with victim services, SIM Canada, women’s ministry and police services.

How You can Help

Elora House is 100% donor supported. We have been gifted a home from someone who believed in our vision, however, we need continued operational funds to ensure the sustainability of the Elora House project. Funding will go towards hiring full time support staff for the safe house and cost of housing the survivors in our care. Our goal is to raise $20,000 monthly to our initiative.

Donate

Donations are tax-deductible and charitable tax receipts will be issued via Elora Road Christian Fellowship (Charity number 107299786RR001).  For more information or to obtain a copy of the business plan, contact us by email or call 519-821-0424 Ext306.

Volunteer

If you are passionate about future opportunities with this cause and have experience or related skills that would benefit Elora House Residents and our Team please contact us.  See our website for a list of volunteer positions available.

1)  Connect with Coordinator Sharon Dolderman for a volunteer police check letter.

2)  After your completed police check is submitted to Sharon, she will give you an Elora House Volunteer Application Form. Submit this completed application to elorahouse-volunteer@ercf.ca.

Please contact changealife@ercf.ca for program or donor-related questions.

www.elorahouse.com