Statement from Minister of Health and Social Services on the three-year anniversary of the Supervised Consumption Site

Minister of Health and Social Services Tracy-Anne McPhee has issued the following statement:

"September 29 marked the three-year anniversary of the Supervised Consumption Site in Whitehorse, a facility that has become a cornerstone of harm reduction support for those in our community who use substances. Over these three years, the Supervised Consumption Site has received more than 14,000 visits from Yukoners accessing a wide range of harm reduction, counselling and health care services. These visits represent the trust that individuals have placed in this space – a place of safety, dignity and life-saving care.

"In the past year, the Supervised Consumption Site has expanded its availability to meet the needs of our community. As of January 7, 2024, the site now operates from 10:30 am to 9:30 pm, seven days a week, including statutory holidays. This expansion, from its previous hours of 12 pm to 9 pm, ensures that more Yukoners can access the services they need throughout the day.

"Since the site's opening, the Supervised Consumption Site has had a profound impact, successfully reversing 87 overdoses. That means 87 potential tragedies were prevented within the facility. The site has also facilitated more than 1,600 harm reduction and counselling conversations, offering critical support and guidance to those in need. In addition, harm reduction supplies have been distributed more than 8,000 times, excluding naloxone kits, helping to ensure individuals have the resources to stay safe.

"The Supervised Consumption Site has become a lifeline for many in our community, but its success is not just limited to overdose prevention. It has played a key role in connecting individuals to broader health services, including Opioid Treatment Services. Over the past year, we have worked to expand access to medically indicated opioid treatment, including safer supply and Opioid Agonist Therapy, with outreach workers and nurses now delivering these services at the Referred Care Clinic, 405 Alexander, and Housing First on 5th Avenue. These expansions help ensure Yukoners have greater access to critical, life-saving treatments.

"The success of the Supervised Consumption Site is a testament to the dedication of the staff, our partners at Blood Ties Four Directions, Emergency Medical Services and the Mental Wellness and Substance Use Services teams. Their commitment to harm reduction and compassionate care has been essential in creating a safe space for individuals to access the support they need, and, for that, I extend my deepest gratitude to them.

"As we mark this important milestone, I also recognize the challenges that remain in addressing the Substance Use Health Emergency. The expansion of hours and services reflects our government’s commitment to addressing these challenges with empathy, evidence-based strategies and collaborative partnerships. We will continue to support Yukoners through harm reduction, treatment and recovery services, ensuring that no Yukoner is left behind.

"I encourage anyone in need of support or services to reach out. Help is available.

• Supervised Consumption Site: operated by Blood Ties Four Directions, offering supervised consumption, drug-checking services, harm reduction supplies, naloxone kits and more. Call 867-633-2437 for details.
• Opioid Treatment Services: same-day appointments and safer supply options are available at the Referred Care Clinic and outreach clinics at 405 Alexander and Housing First. Call 867-668-2552 for more information.
• Mental Wellness and Substance Use Services: Rapid Access Counselling is available in person, virtually, or by phone from Monday to Friday. Call 867-456-3838 or toll-free at 1-866-456-3838.

"As we reflect on three years of service at the Supervised Consumption Site, let us renew our commitment to building a healthier, safer and more compassionate Yukon for all."