Statement from Premier Pillai and Minister McPhee on Poverty and Homelessness Accountability Week

Premier and Minister responsible for Yukon Housing Corporation Ranj Pillai and Minister of Health and Social Services Tracy-Anne McPhee have issued the following statement:

“Our government is committed to working with partners to help end poverty and prevent homelessness across the territory. October 21 to 25 marks Poverty and Homelessness Accountability Week, a collaborative initiative led by the Yukon Anti-Poverty Coalition and several local organizations. For 19 years, this week has acted as a time to raise awareness of poverty and homelessness, drive action and uplift community members.

“This year’s theme, Accountability for Action, emphasizes the importance of effective plans and concrete actions to address poverty and homelessness.

“Our government understands the importance of accountability and taking action, especially in increasing access to affordable housing and supporting services to Yukoners.

“This year, we invested $12.9 million to support the Safe at Home Society’s project, The Hearth, to help end and prevent homelessness in downtown Whitehorse. This non-profit organization is working to improve the lives of marginalized Yukoners.

“On October 23, the Society will continue to conduct the annual Point-In-Time Count, which indicates homelessness across the territory. Last year’s count revealed that 197 individuals did not have stable housing. In addition, an unknown number of Yukoners couch surf, live in vehicles, stay with friends or leave the territory due to housing insecurity.

“The reality that nearly 200 Yukoners are without housing underscores the importance of Safe at Home’s renovation of the former High Country Inn. Once reopened, The Hearth, will provide 67 supportive housing units, offering life-changing support, safety, dignity and opportunities for growth. This joint initiative involving federal and municipal governments and the Government of Yukon, aligns with our Downtown Whitehorse Safety Response Action Plan.

“Additionally, the Safe at Home Society will be operating a 17-unit supportive housing program in the coming weeks at 408 Alexander Street, offering secure, supervised housing for Yukoners that focuses on enhancing tenant supports while strengthening community well-being and safety.

“Housing remains a challenge, not just in the Yukon but across Canada, and we continue working with the non-profit sector, other governments and industry to ease territorial housing pressures.

“We also address food insecurity and provide essential services to vulnerable Yukoners through initiatives like the Healthy Meals program, in partnership with Blood Ties Four Directions. Lunch services are currently available five days a week, with plans to expand to seven days a week. As the colder months approach, the reopening of the Jim Smith Building warming centre this winter will offer a safe space for community members, with access to essential services like harm reduction supplies, snacks and outreach support.

“These are just a few of the many initiatives that our government is actioning to help all Yukoners live healthy, safe lives.

“This week, it is essential that we shine a spotlight on the impactful community organizations and dedicated members working to reduce homelessness and end poverty.

“The Yukon Anti-Poverty Coalition creates awareness and advocates for action on core issues such as food, shelter and access to services. Recently, Patrick Jackson and Richard Lawrence walked approximately 200 kilometres over the course of 12 days with a dog named Bennie to support the Coalition. The pair raised approximately $16,000 for the Coalition’s Voices Influencing Change program. This program supports people to share their lived experience with others and build understanding and awareness.

“Earlier this year, Voices Influencing Change published a booklet titled Our Story. It offers an intimate, thought-provoking glimpse into poverty and other social issues, and we encourage Yukoners to read it this week.

“The Yukon Anti-Poverty Coalition also leads Whitehorse Connects, an initiative that connects Yukoners in need with service providers. From flu shots and tax preparation to vet services, haircuts and more, this event helps Yukoners get access to health and human services. The latest event was held today from 10 am to 2 pm at the Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre.

“We want to thank all the non-governmental organizations, volunteers and front-line staff for the meaningful work they do each day to build a more equitable and healthier society.

“Our government remains committed to working in collaboration with Yukon First Nations governments, federal and municipal governments and the non-government sector to address homelessness and help people access the services that they need.

“This week, let’s come together, reflect on how we can lift each other up and keep building a vibrant Yukon where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.”