Yellowknife opens its arms to evacuees from Whatì, Fort Providence

Evacuees from Whatì and Fort Providence have filled city reception centres, as corporations and residents step up to enhance support services.

The City of Yellowknife is collaborating with the GNWT and Tłı̨chǫ Government to deliver reception services at the Yellowknife Evacuation Centre, while the Salvation Army provides on-site reception support, food service, and hygiene kits, stated a Sunday night release.

Yellowknife organizations are mobilizing support for evacuees, their families, and pets, and the city encourages residents to connect directly with these organizations to learn about volunteer opportunities.

“Yellowknife is working to support our neighbours from Whatì and Fort Providence,” stated Yellowknife Mayor Ben Hendriksen. “We all know the challenges of being far from home in these difficult times.

“Our community’s compassion and resilience shine through in moments like these, and I’m deeply grateful to everyone who has stepped up to help. Whether it’s offering a warm meal, a safe place to stay, or simply a kind word — every gesture matters.”

Rio Tinto Diavik Diamond Mine has sponsored complimentary access to the Aquatic Centre for all evacuees from Whatì and Fort Providence, while the city is providing free YK Transit services.

Additionally, YKDFN is keeping the Wıìlıìdeh Site near the Yellowknife River open for camping for anyone who attended the hand games and cannot return home due to evacuation orders and Highway 3 closure, stated the release.

The Salvation Army is coordinating all donation efforts — specifically requesting monetary donations — which can be made online at salvationarmy.ca or in person at the Salvation Army NWT Resource Centre at 4925 45th Street in Yellowknife.

The NWTSPCA posted on social media: “We have welcomed several cats, a couple of small dogs, and have offered to accommodate more small dogs. Additionally, we are sending provisions to Hay River Animal Shelter to support them as much as we can.”

Both shelters are at capacity and the NWTSPCA, “will continue to lend support to the best of our abilities.”

As the community temporarily hosts evacuees, the city cautioned about increased traffic and higher demand for local services.

The city asked for everyone to extend patience and kindness to guests during this challenging time and to help maintain a respectful environment by giving evacuees privacy and space at the evacuation centre facilities.

With current smoky conditions affecting air quality, residents are encouraged to follow the city’s Facebook page for important information on protecting themselves from smoke exposure.