GNWT to match United Way NWT donations up to $150,000 for flood relief efforts

News Releases

Yellowknife — May 14, 2021

The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) will donate up to $150,000 to support those impacted by flooding in the Northwest Territories.

 

Communities in the NWT have experienced flooding that has displaced residents and caused damage to property. In order to assist those in the communities affected by the flooding the GNWT will match donations to the United Way NWT which will then be dispersed to various organizations that are able to provide the necessary aid to residents.

 

Senior regional officials with the GNWT have been working closely with community governments to support them as they lead the response to the flooding. Regional Emergency Management Organizations, under the leadership of Municipal and Community Affairs, remain in contact with affected and at-risk communities. The Territorial EMO continues to receive reports from all regions and the GNWT remains prepared to provide additional support and assistance to local authorities currently managing emergency response.

 

 

The United Way is an organization that receives donations from various sources and is then able to distribute funding to other organizations involved in responding to these events. This allows the GNWT to provide additional assistance to the communities in need, beyond the current resources that are already being directly deployed towards the disaster relief.

 

 

Quotes

“The overwhelming response from across the Northwest Territories to support those displaced by the flooding is a true example of how we come together to help those in need. Our government is committed to supporting efforts to keep residents safe, and when the time comes to begin the recovery efforts, we will be right there to help residents and communities.” 

- Caroline Cochrane, Premier of the Northwest Territories

 

“The Northwest Territories is one large, tight-knit community.  Over the past week we’ve seen our community members step up and answer the call to help those in need as a result of the recent flooding. In hopes of encouraging Northerners to keep up this generosity, and to offer additional financial support as a government, the GNWT will match residents’ donations to help these communities stay safe, heal and recover.”

- Caroline Wawzonek, Minister of Finance

 

“Northerners are truly amazing in their ability to come together and support each other no matter the challenges faced. The outpour of support that has been shown, is an incredible thing to witness. We are committed to supporting communities in every way we can as they address impacts to their communities. We see you, and you are resilient and strong. We will get through this together.”

- Paulie Chinna, Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs

 

“Our region is hurting right now. Our people are heartbroken and displaced, and many have lost everything they own.  While we will not be able to replace everything we’ve lost, these additional funds will go a long way in helping our communities remain safe and rebuild.”

- Shane Thompson, MLA Nahendeh

 

 

Quick facts

  • Residents, businesses or other organizations looking to make a donation to the flood relief efforts can do so at NWT Flood Relief.
  • Under the Donate to this Charity section, please make sure you select Flood Relief NWT from the dropdown menu.

 

Related links

 

For media requests, please contact:

Cabinet Communications

Government of the Northwest Territories

presssecretary@gov.nt.ca