The Quitpath program: Supporting people in the Yukon since 2009
Helping people across the territory break free from commercial tobacco and vaping.
About quitpath
Quitpath is the Yukon's homegrown program to help people quit or cut back on:
Cigarettes.
Vapes.
Chew, snuff other commercial nicotine products.
Quitpath has its roots in 2008. Since then it has grown from a small program to one that reaches every Yukon community. Our support is free and based on research-backed methods. No matter where you live, you can get help to quit.
We respect the spiritual connection that many Indigenous people have with tobacco. People often use commercial tobacco in ceremony because it’s challenging to grow and prepare natural tobacco in the Yukon. Our services focus on commercial tobacco used the way tobacco companies intend – for smoking, chewing or vaping.
Program Evolution
Quitpath has grown step by step to support people in the Yukon wherever they are in their quit journey.
- 2008 – Launched QuitPack, with in-person info sessions, phone calls, newsletters and take-home resources.
- 2010 – Partnered with Smokers’ Helpline (Ontario) to expand phone coaching across the territory.
- 2012 – Became Quitpath, added 12 weeks of free NRT and expanded into rural health centres.
- 2013 – Launched the first Quitpath website.
- 2018 – Expanded NRT to 20 weeks for participants with complex needs.
- 2020 – Added personalized text coaching alongside NRT and phone support.
- 2022 – Increased NRT access to 24 weeks for all participants.
- 2023 – Introduced specialized support for people who vape (nicotine) and expanded remote coaching.
- 2026 – Launched enhanced digital resources with an updated Quitpath website.
How Quitpath works
3 proven supports can triple your chances of quitting successfully:
- Professional coaching – Friendly, trained quit coaches by phone, text or in person.
- Cessation aids – Up to 24 weeks of free NRT (patches, gum, lozenges, inhalers) per year.
- Resources and tools – Quitpacks, guides and online support to keep you motivated.
Program Effectiveness
Quitting is hard. But the right support changes everything:
- 33 per cent success rate with coaching and quit aids (versus 3 to 10 per cent who try to quit “cold turkey”)
- 95 per cent of participants use NRT as part of their quit plan.
- Meeting with a quit coach doubles your chances of success.
- Coaching and NRT triples your chance of success.
Quitpath is here for every stage:
- Ready to quit today
- Thinking about cutting back
- Just exploring your options
Why Quitpath Works
Quitpath is for all people who are living in the Yukon. It’s not one-size-fits-all.
- Local expertise – Our coaches understand life in the North and the challenges you face.
- Cultural awareness – Our supports respect different traditions and values.
- Community-based – You can get help in every Yukon community.
- Science-backed – We use research-backed tools and strategies to increase your chances of success.
- Personalized plans – Every quit journey is different. We help you build a plan that works for you.
Whether this is your first quit try or your 5th, Quitpath is here with tools, coaching and encouragement to keep you moving forward.
Ready to quit?
Quitpath offers free coaching, quit aids and resources to help you leave smoking, vaping or chewing behind.