GNWT outlines whole-of-government approach to address homelessness

May 31, 2023

Today in the Legislative Assembly, Premier Caroline Cochrane tabled A Way Home: A Comprehensive Strategy to Address Homelessness in the Northwest Territories.

The strategy builds on existing Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) efforts to address homelessness and identifies actions that the GNWT can take to address homelessness in all its forms. This included enhancing supports for those at risk of becoming homeless, and improved, person-centred services for those experiencing chronic homelessness.

The actions identified in the strategy recognize the important contributions of Indigenous, community, and non-governmental partners in implementing people-centred solutions. The GNWT has an important role in supporting these partners across the Northwest Territories as they continue to identify and implement local solutions that address homelessness.

Following engagement on the draft strategy during the spring of 2023, feedback received from Indigenous governments, community governments, non-governmental organizations, private industry, and members of the public was incorporated. Feedback from the Standing Committee on Social Development, including their recent report on Homelessness Prevention, helped inform the action areas outlined in the Strategy.

Quote(s)

“This Strategy recognizes the need to honour individuals’ agency, dignity, and strengths, and connect them with the culturally safe support they need. A home is more than just a roof over your head, it is a connection to the land and water; culture and family. The purpose of this Strategy, and the GNWT’s sustained efforts to improve service delivery, is to help those experiencing homelessness—or at risk of experiencing homelessness—to find a way home.”

– Caroline Cochrane, Premier of the Northwest Territories

Quick facts

• A Way Home includes the following goals:
  • Establish functional zero homelessness goals for all communities.
  • Support Community leaders, Indigenous governments, and the private sector, including non-government organizations to create partnerships and implement evidence-based practices.
  • Improve access and use of mental health and addictions services for those experiencing homelessness, with immediate priority on chronic homelessness to match resources with greatest needs.
  • Ensure shelter services have appropriate resources that accurately reflect the program and service needs of their users.
  • Increase short-term and transitional housing placement options.
  • Establish a whole-of-government approach with a dedicated unit focused on addressing homelessness and preventing homelessness.
  • Increase the stock of affordable housing.
  • Improve data collection, sharing and analysis.

Related links

• A Way Home: A Comprehensive Strategy to Address Homelessness in the Northwest Territories

 

For media requests, please contact:

Todd Sasaki

Manager, Public Affairs and Communications

Department of Executive and Indigenous Affairs

Government of the Northwest Territories

todd_sasaki@gov.nt.ca

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