FOR RELEASE
Friday, June 25, 2021
WHITEHORSE – The Council of Yukon First Nations (CYFN) was successful in its bid for funding from the federal government to build an emergency shelter in Whitehorse for Yukon First Nations women and children escaping family violence.
The funding was announced June 17th by the Government of Canada, through Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) and Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) and included a total of 12 projects across the country. The CYFN proposal was one of two projects in the north that were funded.
The funding granted to the CYFN over the next five years allows for construction and operations support for a 15,069 square foot emergency shelter in Whitehorse comprised of 15-units (32 beds) of both low and higher barrier spaces. Yukon government has generously committed to donate land for this project.
CYFN will lead the construction and operation of the shelter and will work closely with all Yukon First Nations and women’s organizations to ensure that the new facility addresses the needs of the community and existing gaps. It will provide vital refuge with culturally relevant critical supports and services to assist victims of family violence.
Quotes:
“CYFN looks forward to working with all Yukon First Nations and community partners to address the need to provide culturally relevant supports for Yukon First Nations women and children fleeing violence. Through this project, we will seek to create a space that is supportive and inclusive in welcoming Yukon First Nations regardless of where they are at in their wellness journey.” – Grand Chief Peter Johnston
“Generations of inequities have led to these problems and it will take generations to heal them. I am glad to see an Indigenous-led solution to support those who are most vulnerable. Another colonial approach will not heal our communities. Everyone deserves a safe place to call home, and we look forward to working alongside CYFN and other Yukon First Nations to build a supportive, made-in-Yukon shelter to help our people stay safe and rebuild their lives.” – Chief Doris Bill, Kwanlin Dün First Nation
For further information contact:
Lael Lund
Communications Manager
Council of Yukon First Nations
P: 867.393.9200 ext. 9223 | C: 867.335.3227
cyfn.ca | communications@nullcyfn.net
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