Hidden from public view but playing a critical role, the Child and Youth Advocacy Centre of Simcoe Muskoka (CYAC) is a lifeline for children and youth experiencing abuse, neglect, and exploitation. Their mission? To ensure every child’s voice is heard, and to surround them with a trauma-informed care team that helps them and their families heal.
“Our area sees twice the national average of human trafficking cases,” says Kate Waugh, CYAC’s Executive Director. With 67% of Canadian human trafficking incidents occurring in Ontario, many along the 400 corridor, the urgency of their work is undeniable.
But unlike a public-facing organization, CYAC operates discreetly, partnering directly with police and child protection services to provide a safe space for investigations and healing. Instead of a cold police station setting, children arrive at CYAC to be welcomed by advocates, snacks, and even therapy dogs trained to comfort them.
“They sit with the child during the interview process. Parents aren’t usually allowed in, so having a trained service dog there provides a sense of security and calm,” Waugh explains.
A Growing Need, A Hidden Crisis
Unfortunately, CYAC’s work is in high demand.
1 in 5 girls is sexually abused before the age of 18, and nearly 60% of cases go unreported. Many children carry this trauma into adulthood, perpetuating cycles of pain. “Hurt people, hurt people,” Waugh emphasizes. CYAC’s intervention and support services aim to break that cycle.
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Beyond cases of human trafficking, CYAC assists with neglect, intimate partner violence, and online safety education. Their Bridging Supports to Wellness program fills gaps in mental health access, offering counselling to children, caregivers, and even witnesses.
They also run prevention education programs—including a girls’ group for ages 12 to 18, teaching healthy relationships, consent, and how to spot the dangers of traffickers.
Funding Struggles for an Essential Service
Despite their critical role, CYAC has no core funding. They rely on grants and donations, with Waugh writing a grant a week to keep their services free.
“Our services shouldn’t come with a price tag,” she says. “Trauma recovery must be accessible.”
Community members and organizations can support CYAC through fundraisers, donations, and by offering event spaces. Their goal is to grow awareness and support, ensuring no child faces trauma alone.
For more information or to help support their mission, visit CYACSimcoeMuskoka.ca.
Listen below to our interview with Kate Waugh (it begins at the 10:00 mark).
