Yellowknife — July 22, 2026
A new pilot program is helping social housing tenants in Yellowknife address challenges and build stability. While access to safe and affordable housing provides a strong foundation, Housing NWT recognizes that some residents face challenges that affect their ability to maintain long-term housing stability.
To help address those challenges, the Yellowknife Housing Authority has launched a pilot program that combines affordable housing with individualized supports to help tenants overcome barriers and achieve lasting success in their homes.
The program is built on a proactive approach that focuses on early intervention, relationship building and practical assistance. Rather than waiting for challenges to become crises, an on-site Tenant Support Navigator works one-on-one with tenants to connect them with services and resources that support their goals. Available support includes:
- connecting tenants with community agencies and government programs;
- assistance accessing income support and benefits;
- budgeting and financial literacy guidance;
- referrals to mental health, addictions and health services;
- help obtaining identification, banking and other essential services;
- support and coordination with service providers; and
- goal setting and ongoing case management to address barriers to housing stability.
Even small assists can make a meaningful difference. Whether it's helping someone reconnect with health care, access financial assistance or develop essential life skills, these supports can have a significant impact on a resident’s ability to remain successfully housed.
As the pilot progresses, the Tenant Support Navigator is gathering data and Housing NWT has partnered with Queen’s University to better understand program outcomes, identify key lessons learned and explore the role of additional supports in social housing.
The pilot program will help Housing NWT better understand how individualized supports can help social housing tenants overcome barriers, build stability and achieve greater independence.
Quote(s)
“This pilot program reflects Housing NWT’s commitment to helping residents not only access housing, but succeed in it. Through individualized supports and practical assistance, tenants are better equipped to address challenges and establish stability. The knowledge gained through this pilot will help inform how we continue to support residents and strengthen our housing programs in the future.”
- Lucy Kuptana, Minister Responsible for Housing Northwest Territories
Quick facts
- Yellowknife Housing Authority has launched a new two-year pilot program offering on-site support to social housing tenants.
- The program combines affordable housing with individualized supports to help tenants overcome barriers and succeed in their homes long term.
- Through a partnership with Queen’s University, Housing NWT is gathering data to evaluate program outcomes and better understand the role of additional supports in social housing.
Related links
For media requests, please contact:
Laura Busch, Manager, Communications
Housing NWT
Government of the Northwest Territories