As part of the Downtown Whitehorse Safety Response Action Plan, the Government of Yukon will reopen the public community space at the Jim Smith Building, starting November 4, 2024.
As was the case with last year’s pilot project, the Yukon government’s addition of a warming centre in downtown Whitehorse aims to improve accessibility to safe spaces and social services for all, especially vulnerable populations.
The community space will be open Monday to Friday from 9 am to 5 pm, offering a range of services, including warming areas, access to harm reduction supplies, outreach services, complimentary snacks and hot beverages, computers with internet access and printing, a phone, period products, washroom facilities and the opportunity to connect with peers. Free bus tickets and monthly passes will also be available later in the season.
To help ensure a safe, inclusive space focused on community wellbeing and access to support services, the warming centre will be staffed by experienced staff, including a social worker. The Government of Yukon is dedicated to maintaining the highest safety standards for community members as well as staff working in the Jim Smith Building, with regular monitoring of public spaces such as entryways and bathrooms.
This initiative is part of the Government of Yukon’s ongoing Downtown Whitehorse Safety Response Action Plan and demonstrates the government’s continued commitment to addressing public safety in downtown Whitehorse.
At the end of the season, the Government of Yukon will conduct a further evaluation to assess the warming centre’s impact and explore opportunities for further improvements. The feedback collected will ensure that the services provided continue to meet the needs of everyone in the community.
The reopening of the Jim Smith Building warming centre reinforces our commitment to supporting Yukoners, especially those in vulnerable situations, through the cold winter months. By providing a safe community space and access to essential services, we aim to help those in need. As we saw last year, I look forward to seeing many Yukoners access this warm, compassionate space and hearing their feedback as we continue to build a vibrant downtown community.
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The Jim Smith Building warming centre, located at 2071 2nd Avenue in Whitehorse, is a collaboration between Health and Social Services and Highways and Public Works.
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This initiative is a key component of the Downtown Whitehorse Safety Response Action Plan, aiming to decentralize and improve accessibility to essential services.
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The cost for winter operations is expected to align with the spring pilot, which was budgeted at $50,000. Primary expenses include staffing, bus tickets, security and cleaning, with most supplies already in place. Adjustments account for the extended winter period.
Laura Seeley
Cabinet Communications
867-332-7627
[email protected]
Thibaut Rondel
Communications, Health and Social Services
867-332-7058
[email protected]