The Chief John Jonas Centre in Dawson City is pausing all non-essential wellness programs until Monday, August 24, 2026, as the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in Council tries to address ongoing staffing shortages.
The closure affects services run by the First Nation’s K’änächa Department wellness branch, which has been operating without enough support workers for months. Essential services, including home care supports, meals-on-wheels delivery, medical travel, social assistance, and wellness drivers, will continue without interruption during the pause.
“After careful consideration, and with the full support of Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in Council, the decision has been made to temporarily suspend all non-essential Wellness programs and services until Monday, August 24, 2026,” according to a notice posted on the First Nation’s website.
The centre at 1233 Second Avenue is the main hub for health, social, and family programs in Dawson City. The territory is dealing with wider healthcare staffing shortages in nursing, laboratory, and imaging roles, which have put pressure on community health services throughout the Yukon.
Residents needing support can contact the wellness reception at 993-7100 extension 164 or email [email protected]. Anyone in an emergency should call 911.
