The Yellowknife Housing Authority is running a pilot project to better support social housing tenants in the city. Results of the program will be studied by Queen’s University.
In a news release this week, the GNWT said the program “combines affordable housing with individualized supports to help tenants overcome barriers and achieve lasting success in their homes.”
“The program is built on a proactive approach that focuses on early intervention, relationship building and practical assistance,” the GNWT stated.
Tenant support navigators are on site at one Yellowknife Housing Authority residential building – which a Housing NWT spokesperson said they would not name to avoid “contributing to stigma around accessing social supports” – and can assist clients with connecting to community agencies and government programs, accessing income support and benefits, budgeting, referrals to health services, obtaining identification, and goal setting.
While the tenant support navigators work Monday to Friday during regular business hours, the Housing NWT spokesperson said 24-hour security will also be available on site as part of the program.
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“Even small assists can make a meaningful difference. Whether it’s helping someone reconnect with healthcare, access financial assistance or develop essential life skills, these supports can have a significant impact on a resident’s ability to remain successfully housed,” the territorial government stated.
The tenant support navigator program will run for two years, and the GNWT said data gathered will be studied by Queen’s University “to better understand program outcomes, identify key lessons learned and explore the role of additional supports in social housing.”
Yellowknife Housing Authority tenants wanting to learn more or access the support services should contact the YKHA directly, Housing NWT said.
