The Government of Yukon is committed to improving the lives of all Yukoners, which includes working hard alongside our partners to foster a safe, inclusive and thriving downtown Whitehorse for everyone. As part of this commitment, the community space in the Jim Smith Building in Whitehorse will remain open until May 17, 2024.
The community space is on the ground floor of the Jim Smith Building at 2071 2nd Avenue in Whitehorse. It is open to the public from 9 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday.
Yukoners can access a range of free services in the community space, including computer, printer and internet access, outreach services, snacks and beverages, harm reduction supplies, bus passes, period products and washroom facilities, as well as the opportunity to connect with others.
The community space is staffed and supported by two onsite workers. Staff are responsible for ensuring a safe, inclusive environment, focusing on community support and wellbeing. The Government of Yukon is dedicated to maintaining the highest safety standards, with regular monitoring of public spaces such as entryways and bathrooms.
An evaluation will be conducted at the end of the pilot project to assess the program's viability and impact. The effectiveness of the community space will be evaluated to guide potential expansion and ensure alignment with community needs.
Since the community space opened March 18, 2024, more than 600 people have used the service and it has become a popular space for community members to gather.
The community space at the Jim Smith Building has proven to be a positive step in helping ensure the safety and wellbeing of Yukoners. We are pleased to extend the open hours until May 17 to allow even more Yukoners access to this community space. This pilot project reflects our ongoing commitment to providing supportive, essential services to those who need it most. It reflects our broader commitment to creating a safe, inclusive and thriving community in alignment with our Downtown Whitehorse Safety Response Action Plan.
Minister of Health and Social Services Tracy-Anne McPhee
The Jim Smith Building community space is a collaboration between the departments of Health and Social Services, Community Services, and Highways and Public Works.
Operating hours for the community space is from 9 am to 5 pm, Monday through Friday, until May 17, 2024.
The space includes designated workstations, washrooms and break areas for staff.
The program incorporates security, janitorial, traffic management and IT infrastructure plans, with a budget for furniture, communications and compliance with legal standards.
Laura Seeley
Cabinet Communications
867-332-7627
laura.seeley@yukon.ca
Zachary Burke
Communications, Health and Social Services
867-334-7986
zachary.burke@yukon.ca