FOR RELEASE #06-211
September 7, 2006
OUTREACH VAN COVERAGE INCREASES TO SIX NIGHTS A WEEK
WHITEHORSE - Funding announced today by Health and Social Services Minister Brad Cathers and the minister responsible for the Women's Directorate, Elaine Taylor, will enable the expansion of the city's Outreach Van service to six nights a week.
In total the Yukon government will contribute $153,000 in funding to Yukon Family Services Association (YFSA) specifically to put the van on the road six nights per week and to enhance outreach services to young women at risk.
"The Outreach Van provides a very valuable service to many at-risk individuals," Cathers said. "YFSA and other community partners have identified a strong need to be out there, on the streets, to meet the needs of these individuals. I am pleased that we are able to support the expansion of this service."
"The Women's Directorate is mandated to support women, particularly young women at risk, and is pleased to support enhanced resources to the van -- a proven method of reaching these women," Taylor said.
Today's announcement strengthens the support that the community has shown for the Outreach Van. The van is currently supported by Kwanlin Dün First Nation, Yukon College, Blood Ties Four Directions and Yukon Family Services Association. Other supporters have provided in-kind support through the donation of cell phones, gas cards and other items necessary to help keep at-risk Yukoners safer.
"This funding will allow the Outreach Van to better serve its many at-risk clients," Marilyn Wolovick, Yukon Family Services Association executive director, said. "We welcome the government as a key partner to assist the many organizations, private individuals and businesses that contribute to keeping the van on the street. Government support will help us sustain and expand this responsive and effective harm reduction service to the community."
Funding for the Outreach Van project comes through the Yukon Substance Abuse Action Plan.
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| Contact: | ||
| Peter Carr | Pat Living, Communications | Julie Haywood, Communications |
| Cabinet Office | Health and Social Services | Women’s Directorate |
| (867) 667-8688 | (867) 667-3673 | (867) 667-8269 |
| peter.carr@gov.yk.ca | patricia.living@gov.yk.ca | julie.haywood@gov.yk.ca |
