The Yukon government has launched a new backpack initiative to support individuals in need.
Per an Aug. 11 statement, the project, Support is Here for You, is a new initiative intended to provide personal care items and community support to individuals experiencing substance use issues.
The statement said the project is part of the territorial government’s commitment to respond to the substance use emergency by “taking bold and innovative actions, including prevention, harm reduction efforts and collaborative programming with partner organizations.”
“The Support is Here for You Backpack Project is part of a larger, more holistic approach to address substance use in the Yukon by directly connecting individuals with resources and services that can assist them in the long-term,” the statement read.
The project will distribute 200 backpacks filled with items such as first aid kits, warm socks, snacks, basic hygiene products and selected print materials on treatment, harm reduction, drug safety tips and essential services.
Whitehorse will receive 110 backpacks, Dawson City and Watson Lake will receive 15 each, and Haines Junction will receive 10. Other communities will each receive five packs.
Distribution of the materials in Whitehorse will be handled through Blood Ties Four Directions. In other communities, Mental Wellness and Substance Use Services staff at community health centres will help distribute the backpacks to clients. All items have been chosen to address basic needs while fostering a sense of security and comfort, the press release stated.
The statement added that the distribution puts essential support directly into the hands of individuals in need, providing immediate help and comfort and reducing hardship.
Health and Social Services Minister Tracy-Anne McPhee said the government is providing support directly to Yukoners who need it most.
The project, she said, goes beyond practical aid and essential resources because it extends comfort and support to Yukoners experiencing substance use issues.
“These types of support are essential for providing immediate help, reducing hardship and fostering community care for people in our communities. This initiative underscores our ongoing commitment to many bold and innovative approaches in response to the substance use health emergency,” McPhee said.
The success and potential future implementations of the project will be evaluated based on feedback from communities, according to the statement.
Contact Patrick Egwu at patrick.egwu@yukon-news.com
