50-plus people sleeping outside in Yellowknife as winter approaches, advocates say

A new tent encampment in Yellowknife, set up last week on government-owned land, is already at full capacity, with 19 of its 20 spots filled. The encampment was established after its residents were relocated from private property. Colton Migwi, who helps manage the site, expressed regret about turning away those seeking refuge, noting that around 50 people are currently homeless and sleeping outside across Yellowknife.

Tony Brushett, executive director of the Yellowknife Salvation Army, reported that shelters are full and turning people away, with some shelter conditions becoming dangerously overcrowded in the past. A recent internal report highlighted severe issues, including violence and staff PTSD, leading the Salvation Army to limit occupancy to reduce these problems.

Brushett emphasized the need for more permanent housing solutions, criticizing the reliance on temporary shelters as inadequate. He called for increased funding for permanent shelters with comprehensive support services.

Migwi is concerned about the upcoming winter, suggesting that canvas tents with small stoves might be a temporary solution. The N.W.T. government is reportedly working on long-term solutions to homelessness, including increasing supported housing options and addressing basic needs at the encampment, though they declined an interview on the matter.