Sexually exploited youth and adults are among the most vulnerable members of society. In St. John’s, Newfoundland, the Blue Door Program is trying to help them. It’s designed to support individuals, primarily between the ages of 14 and 29, to exit sex trade activities and/or sexually exploitive situations. The Blue Door offers services and support that address key barriers to the exiting process.
The Safer Communities Initiative, along with a $10,000 donation from Telus Mobility, is helping the Blue Door Program accomplish a key goal in their mission. The goal is to provide at-risk populations with the safety they need to be able to get through their day knowing that someone is watching out for them and can help if they’re in danger. The initiative provides cellphones and round-the-clock monitoring to keep people safe any time of the day.
Individuals have access to Aware360’s smartphone app that allows their location to be shared with the Telelink Monitoring Centre. If in danger, a person can send an emergency help request to Telelink. If someone does not check in when they were scheduled to do so, Telelink will also attempt to contact them. If there is no response, the police will be notified. As well as keeping people safer, the system reduces social isolation and supports Blue Door’s goal of helping people move forward with dignity, self-determination and respect.
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