Residents in Pangnirtung who are striving to stay free from drugs and alcohol and who want to stay safe from violence can head to a sober drop-in centre in the community.
The hamlet proposed the project because of "increasing incidents relating to drugs, alcohol and violence," Health Minister Lorne Kusugak said the in legislative assembly on Thursday.
The GN, Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. and the federal government have thrown their support –and $2.7 million – behind the drop-in centre for the next three years.
"The centre will provide supportive listening, skill-building programs and referral services for those dealing with problems related to alcohol, drugs, gambling and violence," said Kusugak. "I am pleased that this government, with the help of its partners, is able to support our communities in this way. This safe drop-in centre, which opened in December, offers cultural activities, on-the-land healing programs and various services to assist in developing safe and healthy lifestyles. Through this program, Pangnirtung aims to reduce incidents of violence, suicide, and accidental deaths."