How TREY became Atlantic Canada's leading provider of specialized care for trafficked youth
Founders Sarah Johnson and Dr. Michael Chen, recognizing the gap in services for trafficked youth in Atlantic Canada, begin developing the TREY model based on best practices from across North America.
TREY incorporates as a nonprofit and begins providing outreach services with a staff of 3 and a network of volunteer mentors.
With funding from private donors and a government grant, TREY opens Atlantic Canada's first dedicated safehouse for trafficked youth, with capacity for 6 residents.
TREY adds Indigenous cultural supports and trauma-informed yoga therapy to its holistic model, responding to community needs.
TREY celebrates serving over 100 survivors since inception and expands safehouse capacity to 10 beds with specialized trauma recovery spaces.
Developed by trauma specialists and informed by survivor feedback, our model addresses all aspects of healing.
Secure housing, medical care, nutrition, and body-based therapies to rebuild physical wellbeing.
Trauma therapy, support groups, and expressive arts to process experiences and rebuild trust.
Education support, life skills training, and career counseling to rebuild independence.
Meaning-making, cultural reconnection, and mindfulness practices to restore purpose.
Programs designed with and by survivors, with choices and autonomy at the core.
Services adapt to each survivor's stage of recovery, from crisis to stability to growth.
Recognizing the disproportionate impact on Indigenous communities and other marginalized groups.
Building bridges with local services and employers to support long-term success.
Compassionate professionals dedicated to transforming lives
Co-Founder & Executive Director
MSW, with 15 years experience in anti-trafficking work and survivor advocacy.
Co-Founder & Clinical Director
PhD in Clinical Psychology, specializing in complex trauma recovery.
Director of Indigenous Relations
Mi'kmaq knowledge keeper and trauma-informed care specialist.