Victim Services Toronto, a charitable organization in Toronto, is expanding its efforts to assist survivors of gender-based violence in anticipation of the upcoming FIFA World Cup, which is expected to attract a large number of visitors to the city. The organization has announced the expansion of its “trauma-informed safety initiative,” Ask for Angela, which provides discreet support to individuals facing gender-based violence or exploitation. By using the code phrase “Is Angela here?” at designated locations, individuals can seek assistance.
Carly Kalish, the CEO of Victim Services Toronto, emphasized the importance of reaching individuals in creative ways and locations where they may be vulnerable. The initiative’s expansion comes ahead of Toronto hosting six World Cup matches starting in June. Kalish highlighted the heightened risks of gender-based violence during major sporting events due to factors like adrenaline, testosterone, and alcohol.
Ask for Angela has been implemented in over 225 local retail establishments, including Loblaw and Shopper’s Drug Mart stores, where staff are trained to recognize the code phrase and provide appropriate support services. Victim Services Toronto has forged new partnerships with various sectors, such as retail, hospitality, healthcare, transit, emergency response, and tourism, to train an additional 8,000 personnel. The new partners include prominent establishments like the CN Tower, Hilton Toronto, and Toronto Paramedic Services.
Through these collaborations, Victim Services Toronto aims to establish direct pathways to crisis support in everyday settings across Toronto. The organization plans to create a map for users to locate Ask for Angela sites nearby or connect directly with their services. Additionally, an “out-of-home” advertising campaign for Ask for Angela will be launched, utilizing disguised posters with QR codes linking to a website to enhance visibility in public spaces like transit hubs.
Inspector Keri Fernandes of the Toronto police highlighted the correlation between large sporting events and an increase in human trafficking, emphasizing the importance of awareness and education within various establishments to combat trafficking and intimate partner violence. Victim Services Toronto’s proactive approach, supported by strategic partnerships, is geared towards providing crucial assistance to those in need during the upcoming World Cup events.
Toronto Police Chief Myron Demkiw commended the initiative for empowering victims to seek help discreetly and safely. Victim Services Toronto recently aided a survivor at a pharmacy using the Ask for Angela initiative, showcasing the tangible impact of their efforts in helping individuals access support services promptly and effectively.