Overview
This funding stream was established in 2014 to provide NWT communities with funding to repair, rehabilitate and improve existing shelters, The funding is to help shelter operators to make upgrades to existing shelters or to purchase equipment that is required for continued shelter program delivery. This funding is not for the ongoing operation and maintenance of shelters in the NWT.
Requests to address building deficiencies for shelters that operate from a GNWT facility are encouraged to be taken to the appropriate GNWT department for discussion on how best to address building concerns.
Examples of projects that may be considered are:
- Address health and safety requirements to bring an existing facility or second-stage housing.
- Address building accessibility concerns for Shelter users with reduced mobility.
- Upgrade existing facilities to energy efficiency resources.
- Ensure appropriate security features for shelter operators.
- Provide additional space for shelter programming.
In the past, the Shelter Enhancement Fund has supported projects such as:
- Emergency plumbing repairs and installing washers and dryers at the Rae Edzo Friendship Center.
- Replacement of oil tanks, furnaces, and hot water tanks for the Dehcho Friendship Centre in Fort Smith.
- Upgrading the electrical system and new roof for the Fort Smith Family Support Centre.
- New shelter flooring for the Salvation Army in Yellowknife
- Upgraded security system and fire alarms at the SideDoor in Yellowknife (now HomeBase).
- Replacing sinks and installing a hand wash station for the Inuvik Youth Society.
- Upgraded appliances, heating vents, electrical work and the addition of a wheelchair ramp for the Hay River Committee Persons with Disabilities.
Available funding
Up to $100,000 is available each year in the form of a fully forgivable loan. All eligible applications will be considered on a rolling submission basis until the funding has been exhausted.
The loan does not have to be repaid, provided the applicant follows the conditions of the funding agreement.
Applicants that have been approved for funding are required to report project outcomes annually, including all other funding streams.
Deadline
Funding is limited and will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis at the beginning of each GNWT fiscal year (April 1).
Eligibility
This funding is available to homelessness shelter operators such as:
- Indigenous governments
- Community governments
- Non-government organizations
Partnerships which include the applicant in the above list will also be considered.
*Non-Government Organizations must be up to date with Corporate Registries.
Shelters that are run in a GNWT-owned building are not eligible for SEF.
How to Apply
To apply, contact the Homelessness Programs Coordinator by emailing NWTHC_Homelessness@gov.nt.ca
Contact
Homelessness Programs Coordinator
1-833-966-2281
NWTHC_Homelessness@gov.nt.ca