This news release has been updated to clarify this program applies to businesses and organizations in Whitehorse. The quick fact regarding the Crime Prevention Grant has also been updated to clarify the scope of the grant.
The quick facts have been edited to remove a list of phases that are subject to change.
This is a joint news release between the Government of Yukon and the Whitehorse Chamber of Commerce.
As part of the Downtown Whitehorse safety action plan, the Government of Yukon is working with the Whitehorse Chamber of Commerce to administer crime prevention programming for businesses and organizations in Whitehorse.
The Yukon government is working with the Whitehorse Chamber of Commerce to facilitate delivery of crime and theft prevention and de-escalation tools to Whitehorse businesses and organizations.
The content of this programming has been developed with industry partners following discussions with affected businesses. It will provide:
- Subsidies to businesses and organizations in Whitehorse for security assessments of locations, including assessment of layout and design to aid in crime prevention.
- Training to businesses and organizations, including but not limited to de-escalation and conflict resolution training.
- An updated Who’s Minding Your Business security checklist to support businesses as they work to address security elements.
This new pilot programming is being offered as year one of the Crime Prevention Grant program. Security assessments conducted this year may be helpful in adjusting the program design and guidelines in the future to better address the specific needs of participants. The aim is to provide qualifying businesses and NGOs with practical skills, updated resources and security strategies.
Program guidelines and information on how to apply will be posted on the Whitehorse Chamber of Commerce website in January 2025.
Businesses and NGOs in Whitehorse have been resilient in the face of ongoing challenges, but work is needed to ensure they can operate safely. We will continue to provide resources to support them and to increase overall community safety in our territory’s capital. I want to thank the Whitehorse Chamber of Commerce for their dedication to advocating for a safer city and for taking on the administration of phase one of this program.
This pilot program is an important first step in addressing the safety and security concerns of Whitehorse businesses and organizations. By providing practical tools such as security assessments, de-escalation training and updated resources, we aim to empower businesses and organizations with preventative strategies while working together to create a safer and more resilient community.
-
This programming is being created in accordance with the Downtown Whitehorse safety action plan.
-
Funding has been approved for three fiscal years, from 2024–25 through 2026–27. This new agreement with the Chamber will support them in distributing this funding for the first year.
-
Over the next three years, the Crime Prevention Grant will seek to explore providing subsidies for security equipment purchases and installations, as well as assistance for damage caused by break-ins or vandalism, including costs not covered by insurance.
Laura Seeley
Cabinet Communications
867-332-7627
[email protected]
Damian Topps
Economic Development Communications
867-667-5378
[email protected]