TESS ONLINE DIRECTORY
This online directory contains information about the programs and services available in Nova Scotia for anyone who is at-risk of entering, entrenched in, or exiting the sex trade; and the people who are working with or supporting them.
All of the agencies highlighted in the directory are formal partners of the Trafficking and Exploitation Services System (TESS). As members of TESS, staff at these agencies have agreed to the TESS Statement of Values and are tied into the broader provincial network of services and support through this Community of Practice.
Each Directory Entry includes:
Agency Name and Location
Program Name and Supports Available
Program Inclusion Details
Access/Referral Process
Key Program Contact
The directory also uses a legend to identify agency gender and cultural inclusion practices, harm reduction, crisis services, basic needs provision and physical accessibility.
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Red Umbrella
The Red Umbrella is the international symbol for sex workers rights. Agencies flagged with this symbol recognize sex workers rights and implement harm reduction practices with people involved in the sex trade.
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Eagle Feather
In Mi’kmaq culture, the eagle is sacred. The feather represents love, friendship, bravery & reminds us of the responsibility to care for each other. Agencies flagged with this symbol have Indigenous staff and/or offer culturally specific programming.
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Sankofa
In African culture, Sankofa symbolizes the wisdom of going back to your roots & learning from the past to build for the future. Agencies flagged with this symbol have African Nova Scotian staff and/or offer culturally specific programming.
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Rainbow Flag
The rainbow flag is a symbol of 2SLGBTQ+ Pride and diversity of gender and sexuality. Agencies flagged with this symbol have gender diverse staff and offer safe programming supports and spaces for gender diverse individuals.
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Harm Reduction
Agencies flagged with this symbol offer harm-reduction services for people that are using substances & require safe consumption supplies.
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Emergency Services
Agencies flagged with this symbol provide low barrier, emergency and crisis services outside of regular business hours.
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Basic Needs
Agencies flagged with this symbol can provide direct access to basic needs such as food, clothing, transportation, health and hygiene products.
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Accessibility
Agencies flagged with this symbol have a wheelchair accessible physical space.
The directory is divided by section according to people’s needs:
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Specialized Programs & Services
Specialized and peer-based supports to children, youth and adults who are at-risk, entrenched or exiting the sex trade.
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Housing Supports
Trauma-informed emergency, temporary and supportive housing programs and supports for youth and adults.
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Mental Health Supports
Community-based mental health supports including free counselling and additional services.
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Sexual Health Care
Community-based sexual health services such as pregnancy testing, pap smears, and STI testing.
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Youth Programs & Outreach
Preventative, community-based youth programming and specialized youth outreach and engagement.
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Education & Employment Supports
Programs and supports related to career change, employment, training, and continuing education.
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Legal Supports
Programs and services for victims and people who have been criminalized as a result of their experiences.
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Family & Parenting Services
Programs and services for parents, guardians and extended family members of sexually exploited youth.