Members of the Yukon Anti-Poverty Coalition (YAPC) announced a fundraiser today that will be taking place this month.

Patrick Jackson will be walking from Dawson City to Whitehorse with the hope of increasing awareness and raising funds for YAPC.

The journey, which begins the Sept. 17-18 weekend, will span 531 km and is expected to take approximately 28 days.

Along the way, Jackson will pass through Dawson, Stewart Crossing, Pelly Crossing, Carmacks and Braeburn.

In April 2021, Jackson completed another trip where he walked from the Dempster Corner to the Arctic Circle with his dog, Dawson, and raised nearly $14,000 for YAPC.

As a result of this success, Jackson decided to embark on this second journey. The goal is to not only raise funds, but also to expand awareness about the impact of poverty on the lives of Yukoners across the territory.

Throughout Jackson’s walk, YAPC will be posting facts about the state of poverty and homelessness in the Yukon as well as actions and solutions on its Facebook page.

“We so appreciate Patrick’s offer to raise funds for YAPC in this way,” said Kristina Craig, YAPC’s executive director.

“He is not only demonstrating action and community commitment that is inspiring, all contributions will be earmarked to support Whitehorse Connects and the work of members of Voices Influencing Change,” said Craig.

“We look forward to working with our partners along the highway as Patrick makes his way from Dawson to Whitehorse.”

Jackson added: “As I prepare for the walk, I’ve been amazed and grateful for the support I’ve already received. Many thanks to Klondike Rib and Salmon, Up North Adventures, Yoga in the Alpine, Aurora Inn, Alpine Bakery and Oliver-Beebe Customs, who have already stepped up to sponsor this event.”

The walk will end during Poverty and Homelessness Action Week with a “Welcome Back Patrick” gathering from 5-7 p.m. Oct. 20 at the Whitehorse United Church.

Anyone wanting to help sponsor the walk can contact Jackson directly at pj@northwestel.net, or, to make a donation, can visit the fundraising page: https://go.dojiggy.io/dawsontowhitehorse/Campaign/Details