The Women’s Trucking Federation of Canada (WTFC) took part in the annual Ontario Association of Crime Stoppers (OACS) conference held in North Bay on June 6–7, 2025, to raise awareness about a critical issue affecting highways across Canada: human trafficking.
Standing alongside Fiona Stone from Know Human Trafficking, WTFC representative Samantha Clarke delivered a presentation highlighting the organization’s outreach efforts. Clarke also brought the WTFC’s powerful awareness campaign to life with a branded trailer carrying a clear, impactful message about fighting human trafficking — a message seen by thousands of road users.
Their presence at this public safety-focused event served as a strong reminder of the key role the transportation industry plays in identifying and reporting trafficking-related activity.
Truck Drivers: Frontline Allies in the Fight
The WTFC has long been committed to combatting human trafficking through education and training for professional drivers. Back in October 2021, the organization launched an online training course designed to help truckers recognize the warning signs of human trafficking and know how to respond safely and effectively.
Drivers are often the eyes and ears of our nation’s highways. With their regular presence on major routes and in truck stops, they are in a strategic position to spot red flags and alert law enforcement. Through awareness campaigns, police partnerships, and ongoing community involvement, the WTFC continues to promote a culture of vigilance and proactive action across the industry.
Building Momentum
The WTFC recently hosted its inaugural Bridging the Barriers Western Conference in Calgary on May 27, 2025, bringing together transportation professionals to discuss not only gender equity in the industry but also urgent safety concerns like human trafficking.
Looking ahead, the federation will continue its mission at key upcoming events, including:
- The PMTC Annual Conference in Niagara Falls (June 17–19)
- The Bridging the Barriers Ontario Conference in Mississauga (September 15–16)
These gatherings provide vital platforms to engage, educate, and collaborate across the trucking sector on issues that affect both industry and society.
Pembroke/Renfrew Crime Stoppers Recognized
On the sidelines of the conference, the Pembroke/Renfrew County Crime Stoppers program was honored for its dedication to community safety with three awards presented by the OACS:
- Best Print Communication for a striking billboard installed along Highway 17
- Special Project Award for its creative “Grinch in Jail” float at the 2024 Pembroke Santa Claus Parade
- Civilian Achievement Award awarded to Bennett Blackwell, the organization’s volunteer board chair, for his leadership and commitment
These awards reflect the ongoing efforts of volunteers and organizations working to keep Ontario’s communities safe.
Survivor-led Human Trafficking Detection Training – for Professional Drivers
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