This is a joint news release with Connective and the Council of Yukon First Nations
In preparation for the October 1 transfer of operations of the Whitehorse Emergency Shelter, Connective and the Council of Yukon First Nations (CYFN) are announcing plans to ensure a smooth transition of the management and operations of the shelter located at 405 Alexander Street.
Connective will be the lead organization in assuming management and operation of the Whitehorse Emergency Shelter from the Government of Yukon starting October 1, 2022. As a sub-contractor to Connective, CYFN’s services at the Whitehorse Emergency Shelter will focus on providing culturally-relevant programming for Yukon First Nations that utilize the facility. Connective and CYFN have an established working relationship and bring expertise in serving people facing barriers and marginalized persons with compassionate person-centred and culturally-appropriate programming specific to Yukon First Nations.
In assuming operational responsibility for the Whitehorse Emergency Shelter, Connective plans to focus on ensuring minimal disruption or changes for those that rely on shelter services. Connective is committed to ensuring that those utilizing shelter services continue to receive individualized care and culturally-relevant programming.
Connective acknowledges the opportunity and need for improvement to shelter operations. As experienced providers of community-based services for marginalized populations, Connective recognizes the importance of establishing relationships and demonstrating a commitment to two-way communication moving forward.
A dedicated information page is available on Connective’s website at www.connective.ca/whitehorse-shelter, to share information, questions and answers, and to facilitate relationship building and open dialogue. Further, Connective is preparing to host a series of community information sessions for local neighbours and the general public following the initial weeks of operation. More information and registration for the sessions is available at www.connective.ca/whitehorse-shelter.
It’s our number one priority during the operational and management transition of the Whitehorse Emergency shelter to provide continued stability and services for service users. We are committed to ensuring that this change will not affect the shelter’s day-to-day operations or the people who live and work within the shelter. As we complete the changeover, our team will be listening and learning from shelter residents and the greater community so we can continue to make a difference in the lives of Yukoners who are facing barriers or who are marginalized.
Connective Chief Executive Officer Mark Miller
CYFN is pleased to extend our working relationship with Connective by working as a sub-contractor to provide programming at the shelter that incorporates Yukon First Nations culture. Through this work, our intention is to better serve Yukon First Nations that access the shelter and provide services in ways that provide comfort and support Yukon First Nations cultural identity.
Council of Yukon First Nations Grand Chief Peter Johnston
Thank you to Connective and the Council of Yukon First Nations for being our trusted partners as we follow through on our commitment to transfer the management and operations of the Yukon’s largest shelter. The Government of Yukon will continue to work alongside both organizations to provide supports and services such as on-site paramedics, mental wellness and substance use services and community outreach. We are very confident that both organizations will deliver people centered, culturally appropriate care programs and supports to vulnerable Yukoners.
Minister of Health and Social Services Tracy-Anne McPhee
Andrea Takasaki
Director of Communications & Engagement, Connective
604-789-9066
communications@connective.ca
Lael Lund
Communications Manager, Council of Yukon First Nations
867.335.3227
cyfn.ca | communications@cyfn.net
Renée Francoeur
Cabinet Communications
867-334-9194
renee.francoeur@yukon.ca