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United Way NWT

Emergency Response

We're reaching out to community members and beyond who want to help in the emergency response efforts United Way NWT provides.

In 2020 our resources were used to help support COVID-19 emergency measures, in 2021 we provided support to programs who helped community members affected by the flooding in the Deh Cho and again in 2022 when Hay River and the Kátł’odeeche First Nation experienced flooding. In 2023 our efforts have been focused on wild fires in Hay River, Kátł’odeeche First Nation and now Wekweètì.

We know that organizations, municipalities and townships are all working to coordinate efforts where they are needed the most, and so are we. If you want to contribute with a financial donation, United Way NWT will direct your donation to groups focused on providing immediate relief, such as shelter, food, transportation, and other key needs.

Donations to this community effort can be made here: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/dn/82499?v2=true


Donate directly today!

50 cents a day feeds over 50 people a month at the Hay River Soup Kitchen.

The GNWT is pleased to offer employees an opportunity to donate directly to United Way NWT charities through automatic payroll deductions. Just fill out the GNWT Payroll Giving Form and email it to esreception@gov.nt.ca to start your contribution.


A message from United Way NWT to GNWT workplace supporters

Dear Supporters,

We would like to thank everyone who has supported United Way NWT through the GNWT payroll program. Your donations provide direct help for local community members across the NWT.

We are proud of the Territorial Government’s ongoing support in our fundraising efforts for local organizations. Each dollar you donate goes a long way in making our Northern community a stronger, healthier, more inclusive place for everyone to live in. Our successes wouldn’t be possible without your contributions. 

Feedback is welcome. You can email us at office@nwt.unitedway.ca or by phone at 867-669-7986.

Tracy St. Denis

Chair, United Way NWT


What is the United Way NWT?

The United Way NWT provides an opportunity for all northerners to work together to give everyone a chance for change. Creating the opportunity for positive change in the lives of our people and communities is our main goal, one supported by raising funds and investing them in important not-for-profit projects in three focus areas:

  • Healthy People, Strong Communities;

  • Kids: All That They Can Be; and

  • From Poverty to Possibility.

During the 2022 GNWT fundraising campaign, United Way NWT received donations and pledges in excess of $106,000, from generous donors within the Government of the Northwest Territories.

The latest GNWT Workplace Campaign Newsletter from United Way NWT provides more detailed information about our current local support initiatives.

Why should I consider payroll deductions?

Payroll deductions are an easy way for GNWT employees to contribute to local NWT charities through planned giving. You control the set amount per paycheque and can cancel your payroll deductions at any time. Your payroll contributions make a positive difference in your community and your territory, while your charitable donation tax receipt for payroll deductions through the United Way NWT giving program is clearly included on your T-4 from the GNWT for ease of accessibility during tax time. In addition to being able to easily donate, control and  track your contributions to the United Way NWT, you also have an active, engaged board of local residents tasked with tracking and reporting on the value and success of these local charities within their communities.

What organizations can I contribute to through the United Way NWT?

Donors can choose to donate to any registered Canadian charity of their choice through their United Way NWT employee payroll deductions. For an updated list of registered Canadian charities, please visit the Canada Revenue Agency website: http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/chrts-gvng/lstngs/menu-eng.html. If you wish to have your donation forwarded to your chosen charity, rather than a United Way NWT sponsored not-for-profit project, United Way will forward your payroll contributions to the registered charity of your choice for a bi-annual processing fee of $12.50.

What do I do if I want to contribute?

It's easy!

Download the United Way NWT Giving Form.

Submit your completed form to the Department of Finance at esreception@gov.nt.ca. Payroll will automatically provide your donation to the United Way NWT for distribution to your chosen charity. The amount of your donation will be recorded on your T4 slip for tax purposes. For employees who already contribute to the United Way NWT, your deductions will continue from one campaign to the next. You do not have to complete a new form unless you would like to change your contribution amount or chosen charity.

What’s the deadline?

There is no deadline to sign up for your payroll deduction. You're welcome to sign up anytime. 

Why do we have a Campaign?

The GNWT United Way Workplace Campaign creates awareness among GNWT employees about the United Way NWT and the work it does throughout the North. 

Who do I contact for more information?

You can also visit www.nwt.unitedway.ca for more information on their programs and how to get involved.