The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) is donating $150,000 to the Norman Wells food bank to support residents facing rising costs. This contribution is part of the GNWT’s ongoing efforts to alleviate the financial burden caused by rising fuel prices and disruptions to essential supply chains.

This past summer, record low water levels along the Mackenzie River led to the cancellation of critical barge resupply services. These disruptions increased transportation costs for essential goods and services, with residents and businesses in the Sahtu region affected most severely. As Norman Wells is a market community reliant on private fuel providers, the sudden shift to air transport has resulted in significant cost increases.

The GNWT is working to mitigate these challenges by delivering financial support programs, airlifting fuel, and collaborating with Indigenous governments, local businesses, and the Government of Canada to explore long-term infrastructure solutions.

This $150,000 donation will help ensure that families in Norman Wells have access to essential food supplies throughout the winter. The GNWT continues to monitor the situation closely and explore options to provide further support where possible.

Quotes

“The GNWT remains committed to supporting the people of Norman Wells and the Sahtu region. This $150,000 donation to the food bank reflects our continued dedication to providing essential relief to families during this challenging time. In partnership with community leaders, Indigenous governments, and businesses, we are working toward both immediate relief and long-term solutions to ensure the region can build resilience for the future.”

-R.J. Simpson, Premier of the Northwest Territories

“The sharp rise in fuel prices and disruptions to supply chains have placed significant financial pressure on families, businesses, and communities across the Sahtu. This donation to the Norman Wells food bank is just one way the GNWT is responding to these challenges. We will continue engaging with Imperial Oil, local contractors, Indigenous governments, and the Government of Canada to stabilize prices and provide further relief. By working together, we can strengthen the foundations for a more resilient and prosperous Sahtu region.”

-Caroline Wawzonek, Deputy Premier, Minister of Finance and Infrastructure

“The community of Norman Wells has shown incredible resilience in the face of rising costs and supply chain disruptions. The GNWT is committed to supporting the Town of Norman Wells and its residents through this challenging time by providing the assistance they need. We will continue to monitor this situation closely and adjust our efforts to ensure families receive immediate relief and access to essential services. At the same time, we remain dedicated to working with the Government of Canada to secure additional support for the community.”

-Vince McKay, Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs

Quick Facts

Below is a summary of the key initiatives the GNWT has already implemented to support Norman Wells and the Sahtu region:

• Support Funding for Businesses and Communities Impacted by Barge Cancellations: $1.8 million to help businesses, Indigenous governments, and community governments offset the increased costs of transporting essential goods like heating fuel, food, medical supplies, and construction materials.
• Adjusted Senior Home Heating Subsidy: Increased to $1,455/month for seniors in Norman Wells to manage rising heating costs, with ongoing monitoring for further adjustments as needed.
• Income Assistance: GNWT continues to cover heating costs for eligible Income Assistance recipients, ensuring no resident is left without essential heating.
• Fuel Supply Coordination: The GNWT continues to work with partners to coordinate fuel transportation and ensure communities have the fuel they need to maintain essential services throughout the winter. Mackenzie Valley Winter Road: In preparation for increased demand on winter roads, the GNWT will widen sections, improve signage, and increase patrols to support safe travel and protect critical infrastructure.
• Long-Term Infrastructure Planning: The GNWT continues to engage with the Government of Canada to advance the Mackenzie Valley Highway, a project that will help prevent future supply disruptions and build climate resilience.

Related Links

• Support for Sahtu and Beaufort Delta communities impacted by low water
• Increase in Senior Home Heating Subsidy for Norman Wells recipients

For media requests, please contact:

Cabinet Communications
Government of the Northwest Territories
PressSecretary@gov.nt.ca