Wildfires in the Northwest Territories have forced evacuations from Fort Simpson and Wrigley, placing enormous strain on Northerners evacuating their homes and pressure on the communities welcoming them.
In response, United Way NWT has activated its Emergency Response Fund and is launching a fundraising campaign to provide rapid, flexible financial support to local organizations responding to emerging community needs on the ground. Early donations allow United Way NWT to begin approving emergency grants immediately, ensuring local organizations have the flexibility to respond as community needs continue to evolve.
United Way NWT’s response has already received an important boost, with the Union of Northern Workers (UNW) and the Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC) Social Justice Fund each contributing $15,000 to kickstart this campaign. The Emergency Response Fund is supported by public donations, which are redirected to strengthen local community organizations’ responses. This early commitment strengthens our ability to move resources quickly where they are needed most.
“The Union of Northern Workers has long believed in supporting Northern communities when they need it most. We’re proud to partner once again with United Way NWT because we know these funds reach trusted organizations delivering real help on the ground,” said Gayla Thunstrom, President, Union of Northern Workers, and member of the PSAC SJF Steering Committee. “Our thoughts remain with everyone affected by these wildfires, and with the -many people working tirelessly to keep communities safe.”
“When emergencies happen in the North, communities don’t wait to help one another, and neither do we. United Way NWT’s Emergency Response Fund exists so local organizations can access flexible funding quickly, allowing them to respond to changing needs on the ground,” said Ben Linaker, Board Chair, United Way NWT. “We’re incredibly grateful to UNW, PSAC, and everyone who has already stepped forward. We invite anyone who is able to join us in helping Northerners care for Northerners.”
Having distributed more than $3.3 million through over 130 emergency grants during the 2023 wildfire response, United Way NWT has the experience and partnerships needed to move funding quickly and responsibly.
United Way NWT is encouraging individuals, businesses, unions, and organizations across Canada to contribute to the Emergency Response Fund. Donations will help local organizations respond quickly to urgent and emerging needs throughout the wildfire response and recovery.
How to help
United Way NWT is now accepting donations to its Emergency Response Fund. Every dollar donated will be invested in trusted local organizations providing emergency support to evacuees and host communities across the Northwest Territories. Donations can be made today at: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/united-way-nwt/campaign/wildfire-evacuation-2026/
