Supporting Northern Communities in Recovery and Resilience
United Way NWT is pleased to announce the launch of a new wildfire recovery and emergency preparedness program.
With funding support from the Department of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, this 30-month program will help Northern communities continue to recover from the impacts of recent wildfires while building capacity to address future challenges.
With a total investment of $1.472 million, this federally supported program focuses on three key areas to support recovery, resilience, and preparedness across the Northwest Territories.
Our Key Initiatives
Capacity Building for Non-Profits
In Spring 2025, United Way NWT will host a territorial gathering for non-profits from across the NWT. This gathering will provide an opportunity to reflect on emergency response experiences, share lessons learned, and develop critical skills in risk awareness, mitigation, and emergency planning.
Partnering with the GNWT’s Department of Municipal and Community Affairs (MACA), we aim to equip local organizations with the tools and knowledge to build stronger, more resilient communities.
Capacity Building for Non-Profits
Following the gathering, non-profits will have the opportunity to apply for grants of $25,000–$50,000 to develop comprehensive emergency plans. These grants are designed to ensure that organizations across the territory are prepared to respond to future crises.
Psycho-Social Support for Community Recovery
To address the lasting emotional and social impacts of the 2023 wildfire season, up to $500,000 will be allocated to community and Indigenous governments to develop psycho-social support plans. These plans will focus on providing much-needed resources and support to individuals impacted by wildfires.
Spotlight: $850,000 Investment in Hay River Agriculture
As part of our new wildfire recovery and emergency preparedness program, United Way NWT will be investing $850,000 to support the restoration and redevelopment of agricultural lands in Hay River. This funding will help revitalize Hay River’s economy and strengthen community resilience in the aftermath of recent natural disasters.
The project, Hay River Agricultural Restoration: A Path to Renewal, will focus on rebuilding vital farming infrastructure that was devastated by the 2022 floods and 2023 wildfires. The goal is to reestablish Hay River as the Agriculture Hub of the North, ensuring that local farmers and the broader community can thrive long into the future.
“Agriculture has always been central to Hay River’s economy and identity. After years of challenges, this funding will help the community recover and rebuild. We believe that restoring the critical farmland will lay the groundwork for future growth and create benefits that extend across the North.” – Paul Gillard, Chair of United Way NWT’s Board of Directors.
“The Town of Hay River is thankful for the support shown by United Way NWT to help rebuild after the flood and fire events of the last few years. The grant to support renewing the agriculture sector will have a lasting positive impact on farmers and the region, helping to launch Hay River as the Agriculture Hub of the North.” – Kandis Jameson, Mayor of Hay River.
In the News
Recent articles about United Way NWT’s new Wildfire Recovery and Emergency Preparedness Program
- United Way NWT launches $1.5M wildfire preparedness program – Cabin Radio, December 13, 2024
- United Way Donates $850k to Hay River Agriculture – My True North Now, January 9, 2025
For more information, please contact us at 867-675-2643 or support@nwt.unitedway.ca
