Yukon NDP asks gov't to adopt 'housing first' model

As winter begins in Yukonthe NDP is asking the government to invest in social housing for homeless people.

MLA Kate Whiteis calling on the government to adopt a 'housing first' model, whichwould include what's known as wet sheltersfor chronic alcoholicswho would otherwise be difficult to house.

"'Housing firstis about knowing that people need a home, and that any other issue that a person is living with can be more effectively addressed once a person has housing," White said. "Does the minister believe in a housing firstapproach for those Yukoners who need either shelter, transitional housing or supportive housing?"

The minister responsible for the Yukon Housing Corporation, Brad Catherstold the house that the Yukon Party has increased social housing by 40per cent.

"Quite frankly I'm offended, as I know are my colleagues, by the NDP's attempt to portray us as lacking in compassion, when in fact our track record demonstrates that we have put more investments into social housing than the NDP," Cathers said.

"TheNDP preach a good line but they didn't put their money where their mouth was."

Catherssaidsocial assistance rates increasedunder the previous two Yukon party governments.

A recent report by the Yukon Anti-Poverty Coalition shows increased demand for homeless shelters in Yukon as well as food banks.