Overview
The Shelter Enhancement Fund (SEF) provides financial support to help improve, repair, or upgrade existing shelters in Northwest Territories communities. This funding helps shelter operators maintain safe, accessible, and functional spaces for those in need.
This fund does not cover ongoing operations or maintenance costs.
If your shelter operates out of a GNWT-owned building, please contact the appropriate GNWT department to discuss building-related concerns.
Funding is available for projects that:
- Facility Upgrades: Renovations and repairs to improve safety, sanitation, energy efficiency, and overall comfort.
- Accessibility Improvements: Modifications to ensure shelters are accessible to individuals with reduced mobility or other disabilities.
- Safety and Security Enhancements: Installation or improvement of security systems, lighting, and other features that promote a safe environment.
- Capacity and Space Expansion: Creating additional beds or programming space to accommodate more clients or support expanded services.
- Health and Quality of Life Improvements: Addressing health and safety requirements and enhancing daily living through amenities like laundry, communal, or recreational spaces.
Examples of past projects:
- Emergency plumbing repairs and laundry installation – Rae Edzo Friendship Center
- Replacement of oil tanks, furnaces, and hot water tanks – Dehcho Friendship Centre, Fort Simpson
- Electrical upgrades and new roof – Fort Smith Family Support Centre
- New flooring – Salvation Army, Yellowknife
- Security system and fire alarm upgrades – SideDoor (now HomeBase), Yellowknife
- Sink replacements and hand wash station – Inuvik Youth Society
- Wheelchair ramp, heating vents, and electrical work – Hay River Committee Persons with Disabilities
Available Funding
- Up to $100,000 per year is available as a fully forgivable loan.
- Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until all funds are allocated.
- As long as the conditions in the funding agreement are met, the loan does not need to be repaid.
Approved applicants must report project outcomes annually, including any other funding sources used.
Eligibility
Eligible applicants include:
- Indigenous Governments
- Community Governments
- Non-Government Organizations
- NGOs must be up to date with Corporate Registries.
- Partnerships involving any of the above
Shelters operating in GNWT-owned buildings are not eligible for this program.
Deadline
Funding is available starting April 1 each year (the beginning of the GNWT fiscal year) and is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis until all funds are allocated.
How to Apply
- Review the program overview and eligibility above.
- Download and complete the application form.
- Prepare your supporting documents.
- Submit your application and supporting documents by email to: Renay_Ristoff@gov.nt.ca
Download the reporting template here.
Contact
Homelessness Programs Coordinator
1-833-966-2281
NWTHC_Homelessness@gov.nt.ca