Statement from Minister McPhee on Nutrition Month

Press Release

March 3, 2025

Minister of Health and Social Services Tracy-Anne McPhee has issued the following statement:

“March is Nutrition Month, an important time to highlight the many ways food nourishes us physically, mentally, emotionally and socially. This year’s theme, Nourish to Flourish, reminds us that food is more than just fuel; it is a cornerstone of community, culture and overall wellbeing. The choices we make about food impact our health, but they also shape our relationships, traditions and sense of belonging.

“This year, we celebrate the role of food in strengthening social connections and empowering communities to thrive. Food literacy plays a crucial role in helping individuals make informed choices that support not just their physical health, but also their mental and emotional wellbeing. In the Yukon, we are committed to ensuring that all residents have access to the knowledge, skills and resources they need to develop a positive relationship with food and to create nourishing environments for themselves and their families.

“In pursuit of our commitment to a healthier Yukon, the government, through the Health Promotion Unit, is actively working with Yukon communities and partners to support equitable access to food literacy initiatives. Through the Yukon Northern Wellness Project, funded by the Public Health Agency of Canada and Government of Yukon, we have supported local food literacy efforts across the territory. This fiscal year alone, 17 projects have been funded through food literacy grants, building on the 22 projects funded in 2023–24, which reached over 300 Yukoners, including 200 individuals from rural areas. We also continue to invest in school food programs, providing $208,000 during the 2024–25 fiscal year to support the Yukon Food for Learning Association.

“Yukoners can access a variety of resources through Canada’s Food Guide and Health Canada’s nutrition recommendations, which offer practical advice on healthy eating. The Dietitians of Canada provide reliable, science-based guidance and tools like Cookspiration help with meal planning and healthy recipe ideas.

“Traditional foods also play an important role in nutrition and wellbeing. Harvesting and consuming traditional foods not only supports physical health but also strengthens cultural connections. Families can engage children in learning about traditional foods through fun activities like the Traditional Foods Colouring Book.

“This Nutrition Month, I encourage all Yukoners to explore the available resources and embrace food as a tool for nourishment, connection and wellbeing. When we make informed, mindful choices about food, we empower ourselves, strengthen our communities and create a healthier future for all.”

Media contact

Laura Seeley
Cabinet Communications
867-332-7627
laura.seeley@yukon.ca

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