Yellowknife — May 25, 2023
In response to the recent evacuations in Hay River and the Kátł’odeeche First Nation Reserve, the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) has launched two new programs to support evacuees and community governments: the Evacuee Income Disruption Support program and the Community Government Hosting Evacuees Grant.
The Evacuee Income Disruption Support program assists individuals who have lost employment income due to extended evacuation periods. It provides financial support to adults 17+ (as defined by the Employment Standards Act) whose employment has been disrupted by an evacuation lasting more than seven days. Eligible residents can receive a one-time payment of $750.
The Community Government Hosting Evacuees Grant provides financial assistance to eligible community governments that host evacuees outside of a designated Evacuation Centre. To be eligible for the grant, community governments must host 10 or more registered evacuees. Funding starts at $20,000 and is capped at $40,000, and is based on total evacuees hosted. Funding can be requested after an evacuation order has been in place for seven or more days.
To apply for the Community Government Hosting Evacuees Grant, applicants must complete this application form, attach the required documentation, and submit it to disasterassistance@gov.nt.ca.
To apply for the Evacuee Income Disruption Support program, applicants must complete this application form, attach the required documentation, and submit it to EIDS@gov.nt.ca The application period closes 30 days after the evacuation order is issued.
Quote(s)
“Residents of the Kátł’odeeche First Nation and Hay River have endured natural disasters requiring evacuation for the second straight year. Our government recognizes the strain that this can cause to individuals and families, and we have introduced two funding programs to provide some level of financial solace and stability during these uncertain times. Together, we stand strong, committed to supporting one another and rebuilding resilient communities in the face of adversity."
- Premier Caroline Cochrane
“Community evacuations are challenging and disruptive, and place financial hardships on residents who are already going through a difficult, emotional time. The Evacuee Income Disruption Support program recognizes the need for targeted support, providing direct financial relief to residents affected by community evacuations. The GNWT will continue to do everything it can to support residents and communities through this difficult time.”
- Caroline Wawzonek, Minister of Finance
“The GNWT recognizes the severe hardship that Kátł’odeeche First Nation and Hay River residents are facing, having been forced to evacuate their communities for the second year in a row. I am pleased to announce funding that supports community governments who have stepped up to help evacuees in need.”
- Shane Thompson, Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs
Quick facts
- As of May 24, 1,994 people from Hay River and the Kátł’odeeche First Nation Reserve have registered as evacuees in Yellowknife, with additional evacuees staying in other NWT communities.
- Currently, evacuees in the NWT receive transportation, meals, and accommodation at evacuation centers.
- Income Assistance clients have been provided emergency funds of $500.00 to $1,000.00.
Related links
For media requests, please contact:
Todd Sasaki
Manager, Public Affairs and Communications
Department of Finance
Government of the Northwest Territories
