On Air Now Indigenous Connections 10:00am - 1:00pm

Now Playing Hosted by Charles Eshleman Indigenous Connections

Listen Live

Whitehorse count indicates 83 per cent of homeless in 2024 were Indigenous

Monday, 24 February 2025 09:33

By Stuart Bonell @BonellStuart

safeathomeyukon.ca

Safe at Home recommends policy changes in various government departments.

At least 145 people experienced homelessness on the night of October 22, 2024, according to Safe at Home's Point in Time count on homelessness in Whitehorse, which is done every two years over a 24-hour period.

Of the 145 homeless, 83 per cent identified as First Nations, Inuit, Metis, or of Indigenous ancestry.

Lack of income, conflict or abuse from a spouse or partner, and substance-use issues were the top reasons provided by those interviewed that night. Individuals suffering with a substance use disorder accounted for 75 per cent of those interviewed.

High rent and low income in Whitehorse for the past five counts has been identified as the "top barrier to housing".

Point In Time's "Calls to Action" infographic states: "Homelessness is created and worsened by ineffective policy decisions" and "Addressing youth homelessness prevents later experiences of homelessness."

The 2024 count indicates that 57 per cent of that year's homeless experienced it for the first time before the age of 20; 43 per cent had been in foster care or a group home during their childhood.

Safe at Home recommends Yukon government policy changes that include collaboration between child welfare, education, and housing systems to prevent young people from experiencing homelessness; investment in integrated care models to provide housing and health supports together; strengthening rental assistance and income supports to ensure housing remains within reach for low-income Yukoners.

INFOGRAPHIC: from safeathomeyukon.ca

More from CHON-FM Northern News

Harper to run for SFN chief

The former MLA for Mayo-Tatchun said that he made the decision following rest, reflection, and careful consideration.
Helicopters head to Alaska for exercise

The Griffons will operate at altitudes no lower than 500 feet above the highest obstacle on their route
First Nations warn of increased scrutiny at US border, citing ICE actions

Recent incidents have seen some First Nations members facing heightened checks, prompting the AFN to condemn these actions and reaffirm its commitment to protecting First Nations
Art brings hope to Whitehorse Shelter amidst challenging times

By including Yukon First Nations art in the shelter, we are helping to ensure it feels inclusive and connected to the community
Yukon Schools to benefit from national School food program

The funding will support a hot lunch pilot program, school kitchen improvements, and the development of territory-wide Healthy Food Guidelines.
Yukon Liberal Party shuffles leadership

Pemberton's departure follows the party's recent territorial election loss, where they failed to form government.
US healthcare workers courted to fill Canada gaps, Yukon next

There are already American health care workers who have moved to Canada with the help of Healthcare Infusion information and resources.
Whitehorse artist makes Yukon radio debut with Christmas single

Audio
🎄✨ Chon-FM Christmas Dinner – Yesterday! ✨🎄

it was the perfect way to kick off the holiday season.
Yukon MLAs celebrate Garbage Truck Santa with tribute

34 years later, Garbage Truck Santa continues delivering smiles, stickers, and candy canes to Whitehorse kids.
NVD‑Host Society partnership powers 2026 Arctic Winter Games countdown and community giveaway

As part of the agreement, NVD and the Arctic Winter Games Host Society are launching a 30‑day giveaway blitz to count down to the Games
Senate Committee on Human Rights report calls for changes to government care for youth

Committee Chair Senator Paulette Senior says that Indigenous youth are particularly in need of a transitional system.
Yukon Department of Education corrects bus cancellation rumor amid record‑cold snap

Education Minister Scott Kent apologized to families and students for the unnecessary stress and anxiety caused by the inaccurate notice.
Yukon Government scraps liberal‑Initiated École Whitehorse Elementary relocation, launches community‑driven site search

The decision follows several community meetings where residents raised concerns about traffic, neighbourhood impact, and a lengthy rezoning process.
Yukon Energy urges residents to conserve power during extreme cold snap

Yukon Energy is asking all customers to be mindful of their electricity use, especially during peak periods from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Recount confirms Liberal candidate victory in Yukon Vuntut Gwitchin district

The narrow margin triggered the automatic recount, with Justice Karen Wenckebach overseeing the process.
2025 Territorial general election official results certified

No winning candidates changed. In Vuntut Gwitchin seven‑vote margin triggered a recount.
Whithorse City council to vote on 2025 food for fines program proposal

Donations must equal or exceed the ticket value, which ranges from $20 to $40.
Whitehorse RCMP identify remains of sudden death investigation

The Yukon Coroner’s Service and multiple RCMP units are continuing the investigation, and the cause of death has not yet been determined.
Whitehorse RCMP charge woman in hand cyclist collision

Ashley Kirkpatrick, also known as Ashley Godin, has been charged with driving carelessly, operating a motor vehicle without a license, and operating an unregistered vehicle.