The organization responsible for managing the Whitehorse Emergency Shelter has been officially designated for the next seven months, although uncertainties persist regarding the operational details and location of the shelter. The contract with Connective to oversee the shelter at 405 Alexander St. was initially scheduled to conclude by the end of August. However, Health and Social Services Minister Brad Cathers revealed that the territorial government has extended the contract with the B.C.-based nonprofit until mid-September without any additional costs.
In a recent development, the Yukon government, along with First Nations, disclosed in a joint statement that Connective’s contract has been extended until the end of March 2027. This new agreement is valued at $3.73 million. Stephen Mills, co-chair of the 405 Alexander St. advisory committee, mentioned that the committee had unanimously agreed on July 6 to prolong Connective’s contract duration. Mills expressed disappointment at the delayed communication from the Yukon government but acknowledged the positive progress made by the committee in enhancing shelter operations to save lives more effectively.
Although there are discussions about potentially relocating the shelter, Minister Cathers emphasized the importance of soliciting feedback from local businesses and residents regarding alternative locations and future shelter arrangements. Concerns have been raised about substance use within the shelter, prompting the inclusion of specific provisions addressing this issue in the new operational contract. The Minister emphasized the need for compliance with these rules to ensure the safety of shelter occupants and prevent substance abuse on the premises.
Minister Cathers and Premier Currie Dixon have previously raised concerns about drug-related activities near the shelter, with allegations of drug dealing in the vicinity. The RCMP Commanding Officer Lindsay Ellis acknowledged the presence of drug trafficking activities around the shelter but emphasized law enforcement efforts to disrupt such illicit behavior and safeguard shelter users’ well-being and essential service access.
The ongoing discussions regarding the shelter’s future and potential relocation underscore the importance of community engagement and collaborative efforts to address operational challenges and ensure the safety and effectiveness of emergency shelter services in Whitehorse.