Yellowknife’s long-awaited Wellness and Recovery Centre is getting a $24 million funding boost from the federal government.
That’s according to a joint announcement by Northwest Territories MP Michael McLeod and Minister of Health and Social Services Julie Green on Friday.
Once complete, the new centre will offer a variety of services for the city’s vulnerable population, including meals, showers and storage facilities. In addition to providing beds where clients can sleep off the effects of substances, the centre will offer counselling, mental health and outreach services. Computers and phones will allow clients to connect with loved ones.
“These are services that many of us take for granted, but for others may not be readily available,” said Green.
The new facility will replace the Day and Sobering Centre, which were temporary accommodations and will be “decommissioned,” according to Green.
The money comes from the federal Green and Inclusive Community Buildings program, which will dole out $1.5 billion over five years. The exact budget of the project hasn’t been disclosed, since it is still underway.
The project has been in the works for several years, having started under previous Minister of Health and Social Services Glen Abernethy.
The centre, which will be located on 51 Street, is expected to open sometime in the summer of 2026. A name will be chosen through a public consultation process.
