The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) released its "What We Heard Report" summarizing the results of public engagement on the proposed amendments to the Child and Family Services Act. The report includes feedback received from Indigenous governments, residents with lived experience in the Child and Family Services system, service delivery partners, and identified stakeholders.

Respondents supported some of the proposed amendments while expressing concern in other areas. Common themes included:

The GNWT invites the public to a virtual town hall meeting on May 9, 2023 for a presentation and update on the planned Wellness and Recovery Centre in Yellowknife.

The Centre, currently in the design phase, will provide shelter and community wellness spaces for NWT residents experiencing homelessness in Yellowknife.

This town hall meeting and presentation will share information on the building design, location, programs to be offered and the estimated completion date.

The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) is now accepting nominations for the 2023 Minister Responsible for Persons with Disabilities’ Award for Accessibility and Inclusion.

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Mr. Speaker, at a recent Council of Leaders meeting on Mental Health and Addictions, I heard from Indigenous governments about what is working well in their communities and some of the challenges.  There are many successes, and it is truly inspiring to hear about the programs and initiatives going forward in communities across the NWT.

Minister of Health and Social Services, Julie Green, released An Alcohol Strategy for the Northwest Territories today. The intent of the strategy is to reduce alcohol-related harm. Heavy or risky alcohol use is associated with chronic health problems, injuries, violence, lost productivity, criminal justice issues, family problems and premature death.

The Government of the Northwest Territories has launched a new campaign to raise awareness about Elder abuse and neglect.

You have a Right to be Safe in Your Home and in Your Community is the first stage of a broader campaign to create awareness and understanding of Elder abuse, contributing factors, and how to prevent and stop it.

A poster and fact sheet have been developed to share information on the different types of abuse Elders can experience, including financial, psychological, physical and sexual abuse, and neglect.

The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) released its latest Social Indicators COVID-19 Pandemic report. The report examines the potential social impacts of health measures taken to protect against COVID-19.

Highlights of the report’s findings include:

The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) is now accepting applications from Indigenous governments in the NWT, community governing authorities, non-government organizations and the Health and Social Services Authorities for the 2023 Healthy Choices Fund.

$400,000 is available to fund health promotion and prevention activities that support NWT communities and their residents.  For 2023, an additional $410,000 is also available to support the health and wellbeing of NWT seniors through age friendly communities and to reduce the harms of alcohol use.

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Mr. Speaker, I would like to share information about the voluntary supports available for Northwest Territories children, youth, and families through the health and social services system. There are several voluntary support services in place that are based on the prevention of negative outcomes. Community Social Workers are available to assist individuals and families in accessing them.

March is Nutrition Month! The link between food and good health cannot be underestimated. Registered dietitians play a vital role in nutrition guidance that supports the unique needs of NWT residents.

Eating a variety of healthy food each day helps to manage weight, prevent illness, and promote overall wellbeing.

This Nutrition Month, practice healthy eating by: