Kamatsiaqtut Help Line goes 24/7 across Nunavut

The Nunavut government is stepping up support to a suicide and crisis telephone hotline that was started by volunteers in Iqaluit almost 25 years ago.

Starting today, people in Nunavut who need help in times of stress and crisis can call on the longstanding help line 24 hours a day all week.

The Kamatsiaqtut Help Line Kamatsiaqtutmeans 'thoughtful people who care', in Inuktitut was started by volunteers in Iqaluit in 1990. It's since been offering services five eveningsa week.

In a news release, Paul Okalik, Nunavuts health minister, says his department will offer an additional $31,500 in funding to keep the help line open full-time.

He says its a commitment made under the Nunavut Suicide Prevention Strategy.

So far, the expansion will take place as a pilot project.

The Department of Family Services already provides $50,000 in core funding to the project each year.

Sheila Levy, the help lines executive director, says the board and volunteers are excited, particularly as the help lines 25th anniversary approaches.

Volunteers from the Distress Centre of Ottawa and Region will provide service during the extended hours.

The number to call is: 1-800-265-3333.