‘Nothing but good things coming’ for YK Street Support Network

The YK Street Support Network says it will soon launch a program to help people experiencing homelessness get to doctor and dentist appointments.

Brenda Kowana, a board member for the Yellowknife nonprofit, said it recently purchased a vehicle after receiving $10,000 through the 100 Yellowknifers Who Give a Damn community fundraising group.

The organization, launched in November 2025, is detailing the vehicle and arranging insurance before the service begins. According to Kowana, how to access the program will be shared once plans are finalized.

The transportation service will initially be available by appointment for medical and dental visits. Kowana said it will not provide on-demand transportation, such as taking people to hospital emergency departments or shelters.

Kowana explained that one of the main reasons she co-founded the organization was because she saw a significant gap in Indigenous representation among shelter staff and services that support the vulnerable sector.

“It’s a really important piece to supporting the homeless, because we know our people. We can relate and understand what they’ve went through with the trauma – that’s the biggest thing that was on my mind to start this nonprofit,” she said.

The organization hopes to expand its services to offer more free meals – it spent time serving free soup and bannock in February – but Kowana said its small budget for food means it cannot yet provide a consistent meal service.

Drawing on her own experience with front-line outreach, Kowana said clients have expressed frustration at receiving only granola bars and water from other groups, saying they want more substantial and varied food options.

As a result, YK Street Support Network has worked to provide sandwiches, drinks and other ready-to-eat items, but the lack of an office or kitchen limits its ability to offer healthier meals.

Kowana said the organization is actively applying for more funding.

After securing some United Way NWT funding and following guidance from Łı́ı́dlı̨ı̨ Kų́ę́ First Nation Sub-Chief Josanne Kenny, the group has helped Fort Simpson evacuees in Yellowknife. It also used some federal funding distributed through the City of Yellowknife to provide short-term support for unhoused veterans.

For now, Kowana said, YK Street Support Network is “taking it a day at a time” as it continues to establish itself. People interested in volunteering can get in touch by email. The group’s 50/50 fundraiser has been extended to September 29.

“A lot of good things are coming our way,” she said.

“Lots of doors are opening for our organization. Takes time. It’s just been nothing but good things coming. I believe there’s more to come.”