Yellowknife, May 25, 2025 –  The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) and its partners are aware of a new encampment in Yellowknife.

Emergency shelter services remain available to individuals experiencing homelessness, providing safety and support while addressing their basic needs. The GNWT continues to work with shelter operators to monitor shelter capacity and address the needs of individuals experiencing homelessness. Since October 2024, the average occupancy rate at Yellowknife's emergency shelters has reached 87%, and total capacity has not been exceeded.

While we encourage individuals experiencing homelessness to access these shelters, we recognize that some individuals may prefer not to use these services; we are working with our partners to identify and address the reasons why some individuals are unable to access shelter services. In the past, some people have temporarily set up tents on state lands in the surrounding wooded areas, which is permitted if all applicable regulations are followed. These include keeping camps clean, not building permanent structures, respecting the shared use of public lands, and complying with fire and waste safety guidelines.

We understand the concerns that the emergence of encampments in the community can raise. These situations reflect complex social and personal issues, and we must act with compassion and respect. The GNWT continues to focus on providing comprehensive support services, increasing transitional housing, and working with community partners to develop long-term, person-centered solutions.

We encourage residents with specific public safety concerns to contact the Yellowknife City Police or the RCMP.

Media representatives are requested to contact:

Jeanne Gard
Communications Manager
Northwest Territories Housing
Government of the Northwest Territories
NWTHC_comms@gov.nt.ca