Garden society, publisher and SPCA win Field Law funding

Emily Blake·Tuesday December 9, 2025 at 10:52am MT

Hay River's community garden. Ollie Williams/Cabin Radio

The Hay River Community Garden Society, Northern Quill Publishing and NWT SPCA are the territory’s recipients of this year’s Field Law community fund program.

Field Law announced the winners of the 2025 fund on Tuesday, saying the program has now awarded more than $1 million to Alberta and NWT-based projects since it started 13 years ago.

“Reaching the $1-million mark speaks to the importance of investing in ideas that directly support community wellbeing and to the passion and innovation of those who continue to step forward with projects that make a real difference,” stated Farha Salim, managing partner at Field Law.

“We congratulate this year’s NWT winners and look forward to seeing the difference their projects will make.”

The Hay River Community Garden Society was awarded $15,000 from the 2025 fund toward its project to develop an expanded greenhouse.

Advertisement.

Megan Russell with the garden society said the funding is “transformational” for the community.

“The new greenhouse means more families can grow their own food, learn new skills and contribute fresh produce to partners like the Hay River soup kitchen,” she stated.

“This grant allows us to expand in a way that strengthens food security, nurtures community connections, and supports longtime residents and newcomers alike.”

From left: Judith Drinnan, Myranda Bolstad, Rachel Vander Veen, Lana de Bastiani and Amber Henry in a submitted photo. The five launched Northern Quill in 2024.

A dog awaits adoption at the NWT SPCA in October 2025. Ollie Williams/Cabin Radio

Northern Quill Publishing was awarded $3,000 for its Stories Across the North initiative, which aims to “bring northern stories to life” through community reading events and a territory-wide book giveaway.

Advertisement.

“By improving access to culturally relevant books and encouraging literacy programming, the project seeks to foster connection, imagination and a love of reading across NWT communities,” a news release states.

The NWT SPCA was awarded $2,000 to support its outreach and education efforts to help pet owners access resources and care.

“Strengthening animal wellness – particularly in communities with limited veterinary services – contributes to healthier households and safer, more supported communities,” the news release states.

Earlier this year, members of the public voted on 10 projects across the NWT that vied for the available $20,000 in Field Law funding for the territory.

The winners were decided by a judging panel based in part on the results of those votes.