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# Joint initiative reaches out to families and children in crisis

Joint news release with the Council of Yukon First Nations

The Council of Yukon First Nations (CYFN) and the Government of Yukon have co-developed a campaign that addresses some of the indirect and unforeseen consequences to children and families of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Family violence, substance use and child maltreatment may have increased within families due to an array of factors such as the reduction in child care, social isolation and general anxiety due to the pandemic.

To support families who may feel overwhelmed by the new demands, CYFN and the Government of Yukon are promoting their services in a joint advertising and social marketing campaign.

One ad depicts members of a six-person household who are doing their best to cope while staying at home. It invites families to call CYFN’s Family Preservation Services or the Government of Yukon’s Family and Children’s Services to find out what supports are available.

A second advertisement depicts two children huddled outside in the dark, while their parents can be seen consuming alcohol and arguing inside. In this case, the ad invites community members to call Yukon Family and Children’s Services if they are concerned for the safety or well-being of a child or youth.

The ads are a result of ongoing collaboration between CYFN and the Government of Yukon’s Family and Children’s Services on child-welfare reform in Yukon.

> The COVID-19 pandemic has created a number of new challenges for Yukon First Nations families and communities. The Council of Yukon First Nations recognizes these challenges and we want to ensure our most vulnerable people are supported.

> These are difficult times for many Yukon families, but please remember that you are not alone and that supports are available to help you cope. And we also want to remind Yukoners that caring for children and youth is a collective responsibility, if you have concerns about a child in your community, please share them with us.

Media contact

Matthew Cameron
Cabinet Communications
867-393-7136
matthew.cameron@gov.yk.ca

Juliann Fraser
Communications, Council of Yukon First Nations
867-393-9200 ext. 9223
juliann.fraser@cyfn.net

Michael Edwards
Communications, Health and Social Services
867-667-8539
michael.edwards@gov.yk.ca

News release #:
20-211
Related information:
Yukon Health and Social Services Facebook
Yukon Health and Social Services Twitter
CYFN Facebook