Lucy Kuptana, Minister Responsible for Housing Northwest Territories (NWT), issued the following statement on National Housing Day:

“Today as we recognize National Housing Day, I want to reflect on the progress the Government of Northwest Territories has made in addressing the housing needs of residents. This day is an opportunity to reflect on the critical importance of housing to the stability, well-being, and prosperity of all people, especially in the North.

Housing is a top priority for this government, and we are committed to ensuring that all NWT residents have access to suitable, accessible, and affordable housing. Over the past year, we've invested over $100 million to address our territory's housing needs. We have many significant projects underway including:

• a modernized 36-unit Aspen Apartments in Yellowknife,
• a new 50-unit accessible multi-plex in downtown Yellowknife, and
• five new seniors’ duplexes across our communities, enabling our Elders to age close to home.

I'm particularly proud of our strengthened partnerships with Indigenous governments.

In April 2024, we signed a Collaborative Agreement with the Gwich’in Tribal Council, which is one of five agreements that Housing Northwest Territories has signed with Indigenous governments since 2022. These agreements are helping to shape community-driven housing solutions that reflect local needs and priorities.

We know that we cannot do this alone. Housing challenges in the North are complex and require a collaborative approach.

As we look to the future, we are also focusing on climate resilience and sustainable construction practices. From energy-efficient buildings to the use of biomass and heat pump technologies, we are making sure our housing solutions are not only affordable but also built to withstand the challenges of a changing climate.

To those struggling with housing challenges: we hear you, and we’re working hard to create more housing options and build more homes for Northerners. To our partners: Indigenous governments, community leaders, federal colleagues, and housing advocates; quyanainni ilaugavit –thank you for your partnership.

Together, we're building more than houses; we're building a future where every NWT resident has a place to call home.”

Media Requests, please contact:
Jeanne Yurris
Manager, Communications
Housing NWT
Government of the Northwest Territories
NWTHC_Comms@gov.nt.ca
(867)767-9329 x 85031