“We always like to connect prior to the move-in to get what people’s comfort snacks are,” said Ashley Tiller, violence to resilience manager at YWCA Halifax. “What are their interests? What are some things that would help them feel at home?”
At Safer Spaces, comfort is more than a gesture: it’s a guiding principle. The 24/7 trauma-informed program, operated by YWCA Halifax at an undisclosed location in Nova Scotia, was designed to support survivors of human trafficking and sexual exploitation in ways that go beyond simply meeting basic needs.
From a personalized welcome package to a tradition where new participants choose the group takeout meal on their first night, every detail is intentional.
“Those pieces of comfort and familiarity when they first move in are part of building trust and safety,” said Tiller.
Safer Spaces offers wraparound support, including safe housing, access to food and basic necessities, and connections to income assistance, employment supports, health care, and counselling. On-site programming is designed to reflect the unique needs of whoever is in the space — from skill-based workshops to group sessions led by peer support workers.
“It’s so unique to each individual and what they’re seeking to get out of their time in the space,” Tiller explained. “Having a smaller catchment of participants really allows it to have that intentional access to one-on-one support.”
What sets Safer Spaces apart is its flexibility and its refusal to apply a one-size-fits-all model. “Everybody’s journeys are so different,” Tiller said. “We need to hold space for people to have their journey and path in the way that works for them.”
“There is no one way that somebody’s journey should look.”
For Tiller, one recent testimony sums up the spirit of the program. A participant shared that Safer Spaces helped her feel safe, supported, and valued — and gave her the space to explore “her boundaries, her desires, her values.”
“She was able to learn more about herself,” said Tiller. “And she hoped that others would walk away with the same strength and self-understanding it gave her.”
YWCA Halifax accepts referrals to Safer Spaces from across Canada, particularly when relocation is needed for safety. The program is open to people between the ages of 18 to 29 who have experienced sexual exploitation or human trafficking. For more information or to make a referral, contact YWCA Halifax directly at: saferspaces@ywcahalifax.com.
