Speaker, I would like to recognize the Women’s Centre of York Region, which has been—and continues to be—a driving force in York region for more than 45 years. They offer unique programming and services to women who are seeking a positive change in their life. Their goal is to fully support each woman on their personal journey of discovery.

Earlier this week, the Associate Minister of Women’s Social and Economic Opportunity, the Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, and myself visited the Women’s Centre of York Region in Newmarket, as they were selected to be part of a $6.9-million investment over three years, as part of the Investing in Women’s Futures Program. This investment will provide a range of flexible services and employment-readiness supports for women facing social and economic barriers, including those experiencing gender-based violence and social isolation.

In 2021-22, the Investing in Women’s Futures Program helped more than 1,300 women across the province secure employment, start their own business or pursue further training or education.

I am truly excited to see the positive changes that the Women’s Centre of York Region will achieve for women in my riding and throughout York region.

I’ve heard from the government side an apparent interest in looking after human trafficking, about doing something about human trafficking. I was very shocked this morning to hear that the Elizabeth Fry Society of Hamilton lost its funding.

I’m going to create some context: When women are released from prison, they’re taken to a bus stop and they’re given a bus ticket, and that’s it. They’re immediately targets for human trafficking. The Elizabeth Fry Society provides programming to help women become ready to resume civilian life, and also to make sure that they get home safely and that they have safe places to live.

To see that cut is really horrifying to me. My question to the member from London West is, do you have concerns about how vulnerable women are being treated in this budget?