The Council of Yukon First Nations (CYFN) and the territorial government have announced the launch of a Yukon First Nations Land-Based Healing Fund.

The fund encompasses $9 million in funding over three years to March 31, 2026.

It provides funding to Yukon First Nations governments and Yukon First Nations-led organizations for eligible projects.

Financed by the government and administered by the CYFN, the fund is aimed at enhancing healing and wellness by connecting to traditional practices on the land.

Land-based healing reconnects individuals to traditional teachings, culture and the land.

“By incorporating practices like hunting, fishing, trapping and outdoor survival, land-based healing approaches empower individuals to heal and grow, and support emotional, physical, mental, and spiritual well-being,” the government and CYFN said in a statement last month.

“This approach emphasizes the passing of traditional knowledge to future generations through land-based activities and nurturing wellbeing through a profound connection with the land.”

This fund fulfills a recommendation under the Substance Use Health Emergency Strategy. It aims to address trauma, grief and loss experienced by First Nations.

The initiative aligns with other key government strategies, including Putting People First and the Yukon’s Strategy on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls and Two-Spirit People+.

It’s part of a culturally responsive approach to support diverse land-based activities, including cultural camps and traditional environmental knowledge programs.

The initiative is designed to be low-barrier and flexible to accommodate the diverse needs of each First Nations community.

The CYFN is staffing two positions to support First Nations in successfully accessing funding and implementing projects.

The CYFN hosted a two-day land-based summit at the end of November to collaborate with stakeholders and develop strategic initiatives.

“The Land-Based Healing Fund represents our shared commitment to supporting the continued strength and wellbeing of Yukon First Nations communities,” said Health and Social Services Minister Tracy-Anne McPhee.

“Through the Fund, we aim to honour and address historical challenges while paving the way for a future where cultural knowledge and healing practices are integrated into the health and wellness journeys of all Yukoners.

“Our government is proud to invest in initiatives that promote reconciliation and healing, which have been priorities for this government since day one.”

CYFN Grand Chief Peter Johnston said the new fund “represents a significant step towards supporting mental wellness, strengthening cultural connections, and empowering Yukon First Nations to heal and thrive.

“It serves as a powerful tool for strengthening our connection to the land and our traditional ways.”

Annie Blake, the NDP MLA for Vuntut Gwitchin, said she hopes the initiative “will empower Yukon First Nations to develop and promote recovery for all Yukoners.

“Access to land supports culture. It opens space for connection, relationships, spirituality and identity, all of which are all important elements of healing,” Blake said.

“I’m also grateful to the Council of Yukon First Nations for administering the Land-Based Healing Fund.”