Travis Smarch News Today

Travis Smarch is one of eight Yukoners who have died from an illicit drug overdose so far in 2022. His family shared their story in the hope it will spur change. 

The purpose, Health Minister Tracy-Anne McPhee explained, is to bolster addiction and mental wellness services across the territory. This could include drug testing capacity in communities and better resourced land-based treatments.

Vigils popped up across the Yukon Saturday as a way to remember those who died from opioids or illicit drugs. Organizers are also taking the opportunity to draft a petition asking the territory declare a state of emergency.