Concord Adex Survivors Fund Celebrates Legislature’s Action
Concord Adex Survivors Fund Celebrates Ontario Legislature’s Action to Protect Victims of Human Trafficking
The Concord Adex Survivors Fund, along with government partners, business leaders, and community members gathered today at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport to announce that Bill 41, The Protection From Coerced Debts Incurred In Relation to Human Trafficking Act, has successfully passed its third and final reading in the Ontario legislature with all-party support.
This Bill provides a legislative framework to prohibit the collection of coerced debts, and prohibits coerced debts from being taken into consideration when determining whether to provide credit services or products. The successful implementation of Bill 41 requires transparency and the involvement of all stakeholders, while prioritizing the protection of human trafficking survivors.
The Concord Adex Survivors Fund, an initiative of the Seeds of Hope Foundation, has been a beacon of hope for survivors of human trafficking since 2021. By providing safe, affordable housing and post-secondary education support, the Fund has been instrumental in helping survivors rebuild their lives post-exploitation.
This holiday season, Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport will host three ‘Angel Trees’, each adorned with hundreds of acrylic angels symbolizing survivors of human trafficking. These trees serve as a poignant reminder of the pervasive issue of human trafficking in communities across Canada.
Quotes
“Survivors of human trafficking have been stuck in shelters and unable to move on with their lives because of fraudulent debts incurred in their names by their traffickers. This Bill is a step towards relieving some of those debts so survivors can heal and move on with their lives.”
“This landmark legislation is a crucial step forward in the fight against human trafficking, ensuring that victims are not further victimized by fraudulent debts incurred as a result of their trafficking. We are grateful for the cross-party support this bill has received, demonstrating our shared commitment to this critical issue. Together, we can make a significant difference in the lives of those affected by human trafficking.”
“As the owner and operator of a key transportation hub in downtown Toronto, we recognize that we have a responsibility to equip our staff with knowledge and awareness that could disrupt and effect a positive outcome. We are committed to continuing to speak up and take action to help disrupt human trafficking in our communities and applaud MPP Glover and his colleagues at Queens Park for taking decisive action in support of victims and their recovery.”
“PortsToronto and Nieuport Aviation’s support of the Concord Adex Survivors Fund Seeds of Hope donation drive began in 2021. Since that time, we’ve together raised funds for housing and post-secondary education for victims of human trafficking, and have also made important inroads in educating passengers, employees and everyone passing through our terminal building about the devastating impact of human trafficking. Today marks a significant step forward with the passing of Bill 41 and we commend Concord Adex Survivors Fund for their passion and persistence in supporting survivors post-exploitation.”
Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is an award-winning gateway to Canada’s largest city, offering unmatched convenience just minutes from downtown Toronto. Serving passengers since 1939, the airport provides service to more than 20 cities across Canada and the U.S., with connections to more than 100 global destinations through its airline partners, and a U.S. Customs and Border Protection Preclearance facility opening soon.
Renowned for its accessibility, stunning skyline views and 98% passenger satisfaction rating, Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport supports critical regional services, including medical travel and medevac operations through Ornge. It is also a key economic driver, supporting more than 4,000 jobs (2,000 directly associated with its operations) and generating approximately $2 billion annually for the regional economy.
Committed to sustainability, the airport is a three-time recipient of the Airports Council International–North America’s Environmental Achievement Award and is certified under Level 1 Airport Carbon Accreditation.
Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport is owned and operated by PortsToronto. Nieuport Aviation is the terminal partner and operates the airport’s complimentary shuttle service to and from downtown Toronto.