Revised - The Yukon government is investing $12.9 million into The Hearth, a 67-unit permanent supportive housing project.

Pending renovations will transform the former High Country Inn/Fourth Avenue Residence into safe and affordable housing for a mixed demographic of individuals enduring or at risk of experiencing homelessness.

About $7.9 million of the $12.9 million will go toward the construction and renovation work.

The total construction cost of the project is pegged at about $42 million. That amounts to an estimated $626,000 per unit.

For the past year, the Safe at Home Society has provided temporary housing for 28 residents within the facility as plans were finalized to undertake a major renovation and construction project to create the 67 units by 2026.

Last October, the government provided the society with $699,946 for the winter housing initiative, which will end March 31. Those benefiting from it will have to relocate to alternate premises during the renovations.

“As part of the Downtown Whitehorse Safety Response Action Plan, Health and Social Services is committed to working with partners to help ensure that our most vulnerable citizens have access to essential support and services,” the government said last Thursday.

Once The Hearth opens, the housing units will be allocated to individuals on the By Name List, a real-time list of those currently experiencing homelessness in Whitehorse.

The supportive housing model for the project is driven by a Housing First and harm reduction approach that promotes self- determination and dignity.

“Our government continues to support the tireless work of the Safe at Home Society and its vision to develop the permanent supportive housing project, The Hearth,” said Premier Ranj Pillai, who is also the minister responsible for Yukon Housing Corp.

“I extend my congratulations to all who worked so hard to bring this historic project forward.

“Supporting the Yukon’s most vulnerable residents requires collective action and long-term investments to address the many challenging factors that surround homelessness.”

Construction is planned to begin this month, led by Wildstone Construction Group.

“This achievement marks a monumental step forward in our commitment to ending homelessness by providing a safe, supportive environment for our community,” said Jordan Aslett, a member of the society’s board.

“I witness daily the critical need for supportive housing solutions. The Hearth is a testament to what we can achieve when we come together as a community, dedicated to the well-being and dignity of every individual.

“Our heartfelt thanks go to all our partners who have made this possible,” Aslett added.

Seventy-five per cent of all units are for individuals who identify as Indigenous; 50 per cent overall units for women; and 16 units are reserved for youth between the ages of 18 and 24.

The supportive housing model provides access to crisis intervention and counselling, among other services.

The housing corporation will provide $12.9 million in funding, including $7.9 million for the construction and renovation.

The By Name List is a shared list of individuals experiencing homelessness used to prioritize housing and support based on need.

See related story below; premier’s remarks at Housing Summit, p. 5.