Yellowknife shelters are in a state of crisis, struggling to accommodate a growing number of unhoused individuals. The Salvation Army men’s shelter, designed for 31 people, has been averaging over 50 residents nightly. Due to fire safety concerns, the shelter has capped its intake at 45 people, but the situation remains dire, with many people forced to sleep in hallways. This surge in demand began after last summer’s wildfire evacuation, which brought both new arrivals and returning residents to the city.
Similarly, the women’s emergency shelter, which has a capacity of 10, has been overcrowded since the evacuation, with some individuals sleeping in the kitchen or in chairs during the winter. Both shelters have seen increased violence and safety issues due to overcrowding, and staff are experiencing significant burnout. Staff efforts are primarily focused on managing the chaos, leaving little room for support services such as addiction assistance or health checks, which are crucial for residents at risk of overdose.
If all shelters in Yellowknife refused new entries when reaching capacity, it is estimated that an additional 50 people would be left on the streets. In response to the crisis, some local advocates, including Tłı̨chǫ teacher Georgina Franki and Summit Roofing owner Dingeman van Bochove, have created a tent encampment on commissioner’s land, built without permits. This initiative is part of a broader push to address the homelessness crisis amid the overwhelming demand for shelter services.
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