Source: Government of Canada regional news
Statement from Minister McPhee on the Jim Smith Building Community warming space
jlutz
March 18, 2025 – 2:31 pm
Minister of Health and Social Services Tracy-Anne McPhee has issued the following statement:
“As we continue our work to ensure all Yukoners have access to safe, warm and supportive spaces, I am pleased to share an update on the Jim Smith Building’s community warming space.
“The Jim Smith Building community warming space reopened on November 4, 2024, as part of the Government of Yukon’s Downtown Whitehorse Safety Response Action Plan.
“This initiative builds on the success of last year’s pilot project, which demonstrated a clear need for accessible, community-oriented spaces where individuals can find warmth, connection and essential services. Since reopening, the warming space has been well received, with weekly visits ranging from 110 in the first week to 411 at the end of February. As of March 7, the warming space has recorded 3,195 client visits since it opened in November.
“This is a clear indication that Yukoners are benefiting from this service and we remain committed to ensuring that this space continues to meet community needs. Feedback from visitors has been overwhelmingly positive, reinforcing the importance of this initiative. One client described it as an ‘amazing space, 10 out of 10 overall’, while another praised the staff as ‘friendly, human and real’.
“Others have highlighted the staff’s understanding and the centre’s welcoming atmosphere, calling it the ‘best place, best staff, wonderful’.
“The warming space operates Monday to Friday, from 9 am to 5 pm, offering a range of supports, including:
- warm, welcoming areas for individuals to gather and rest;
- complimentary snacks and beverages;
- access to harm reduction supplies and period products;
- computer and internet access, along with printing and phone services;
- free individual and monthly bus tickets, aligning with our 2023 Confidence and Supply Agreement initiative to replace fare-generated revenue for public transit; and
- dedicated onsite outreach workers, including a social worker, to assist with supports and service connections.
“In addition to services provided at the warming space, an outreach worker continues to be available at the Whitehorse Public Library, ensuring that community support remains accessible in multiple locations.
“This month, as we recognize Social Work Month, it is particularly important to acknowledge the critical role social workers play in supporting individuals facing complex challenges. Their expertise and compassion are essential in ensuring that spaces like the Jim Smith Building warming space provide not only warmth but meaningful assistance and connections to further supports.
“This initiative reflects the values of compassion and inclusivity that are central to our government’s work. It is part of our broader effort to create a downtown Whitehorse that is safe, welcoming and supportive for all.
“The original pilot project ran from March 18 to May 17, 2024, during which time the warming space saw 1,245 visits – an average of 29 per day – with 379 bus tickets distributed.
“We know that the challenges faced by vulnerable Yukoners are complex and multifaceted. Providing a space like the Jim Smith Building community warming space is just one step in our broader efforts to address public safety, health and social inclusion in our territory.
“Feedback from visitors also indicates that the location serves as an appropriate space for individuals to relax, work and access necessary resources. Many clients use the warming space in addition to other community services, such as the Whitehorse Public Library, Skookum Jim Friendship Centre and the Multicultural Centre of Yukon.
“This highlights the warming space’s role in complementing existing supports and ensuring that no Yukoner is left behind. Our government remains committed to adapting our approach based on community feedback and ongoing evaluation.
“At the end of this winter season, we will assess the warming space’s impact and explore opportunities for further improvements to ensure we continue meeting the needs of Yukoners.
“I want to express my gratitude to the dedicated staff and outreach workers who make this initiative possible. Their work ensures that those who visit the warming space receive the support and respect they deserve.
“We are committed to continuing this work alongside our community partners and I look forward to hearing from Yukoners about how this space has supported them during the winter months.”
Media contact
Laura Seeley
Cabinet Communications
867-332-7627
laura.seeley@yukon.ca
News release #:
25-118