Residents of the Northwest Territories living with disabilities can access territorial programs designed to address both financial needs and the unique challenges of northern living. This guide outlines key supports such as the Income Assistance program for persons with disabilities and the Aids to Daily Living Program, alongside essential benefits for medical travel and home heating, while connecting you to federal benefits and national navigation services.
Quick Jump Navigation
Territorial Financial Assistance | Housing and Home Modification Programs | Education, Culture and Employment (ECE) Service Centres | Key Non-Government Support Organizations | More Local Resources in the NWT | Federal Disability Benefits | Free Navigation Services | Financial Aid for Post-Secondary Students with Disabilities | National Charitable Organizations
Financial Assistance Programs in the Northwest Territories
Programs administered by the Government of the Northwest Territories to support residents with disabilities
Income Assistance – Persons with Disabilities Category
This program provides financial support for basic and functional needs to individuals who have a severe disability and are unable to work. It is a category within the broader Income Assistance program.
Website: GNWT – Income Assistance
Extended Health Benefits (EHB)
This is the main government program that helps pay for medical supplies and equipment for eligible residents, including seniors and low-income families.
General Inquiries: Call 1-800-661-0830 (extension 49462) or 867-777-7400.
Application Email: [email protected]
Mailing Address: Health Services Administration, Department of Health and Social Services, Bag #9, Inuvik, NT X0E 0T0
Website: Extended Health Benefits (EHB)
General Health & Social Services Authority
For assessments related to home and community care, contact your regional health authority.
NWT Health Line: Call 811 for 24/7 confidential health advice and information.
Website: Yellowknife Health and Social Services Authority or call 867-767-9090.
Housing and Home Modification Programs
Mobility Modifications Program
This program, run by the NWT Housing Corporation, provides forgivable loans to help residents with disabilities make accessibility modifications to their homes. To Apply: Contact your local Housing NWT District Office by phone for assistance with the application process.
Phone: 867-767-9332, extension 85130
Website: Mobility Modifications Program
Education, Culture and Employment (ECE) Service Centres
For financial help with basic needs through Income Assistance, contact a Client Navigator at a local ECE Service Centre. The ECE Service Centres serve as the first point of contact for members of the public looking for information regarding departmental programs and services. ECE delivers its employment, labour and income security programs and services through Service Centres located in all regions and most communities.
Phone: 867-587-7159
Toll-Free: 1-866-814-9840
Website: ECE Service Centre
Key Non-Government Support Organizations
NWT Disabilities Council
A primary local organization offering advocacy, community programs, and the Accessible Parking Permit Program.
Phone: 867-873-8230
Toll-Free: 1-800-491-8885
Website: NWT Disabilities Council
Inclusion NWT
Provides lifelong support services for individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families.
Location: 4912 53 St, Yellowknife, NT X1A 1V2
Website: Inclusion NWT
More Local Resources in the NWT
NWT Autism Society
The purpose of the NWT Autism Society’s website is to provide individuals living with autism, their families, service providers, and the community with information and resources regarding autism spectrum disorders. The society’s vision is to see families and individuals living with autism achieve their full potential through advocacy, educational resources, and promoting community awareness. A recent CBC report highlighted ongoing challenges families face in accessing consistent respite care in the territory, an area of support these organizations work within.
Website: NWT Autism Society
Seniors’ Society of the NWT
The Seniors’ Society of the NWT acts as an information source and resource for seniors and elders across the territory.
Website: Seniors’ Society of the NWT
Foster Family Coalition of the NWT (FFCNWT)
The Foster Family Coalition of the NWT is a unified voice dedicated to improving the quality of life for children and youth in care by supporting the well-being of foster, adoptive, and customary care families. They provide support through groups, newsletters, recreational activities, resources, and advocacy.
Website: Foster Family Coalition of the NWT (FFCNWT)
NWT Human Rights Commission
Description: The NWT Human Rights Commission is the independent agency that administers the NWT Human Rights Act and deals with complaints of discrimination. Its website serves as the portal for information on rights, the complaint process, and public education.
Website: NWT Human Rights Commission
Federal Disability Benefits for NWT Residents
Federal programs administered by the Government of Canada, available to all Canadians including Northwest Territories residents
Visit Our Guide: National Disability Funding & Supports in Canada
Free Disability Benefits Navigation Services
The Government of Canada funds organizations to provide free, one-on-one help to individuals and families struggling to understand or apply for federal and territorial disability benefits and tax credits. These navigators can help with forms, eligibility, and accessing the full range of supports.
National Directory of Navigation Services
Official Government of Canada updated directory of all funded navigation services across Canada.
Website: National Directory of Navigation Services
Plan Institute
Indigenous Disability Canada (IDC) / BCANDS
Indigenous Disability Canada (BCANDS) gives culturally focused navigation, support, and advocacy for Indigenous peoples with disabilities and their families.
Website: Indigenous Disability Canada
Financial Aid for Post-Secondary Students with Disabilities
Northwest Territories Student Aid offers grants to support post-secondary students with documented permanent or persistent/prolonged disabilities. This includes the Canada Student Grant for Students with Disabilities ($2,800 per loan year) and the Canada Student Grant for Services and Equipment (up to $20,000 per loan year) for education-related costs.
Northwest Territories Financial Aid for Students with Disabilities
NWT Student Financial Assistance
For grants and aid for post-secondary students with disabilities.
Phone: 867-767-9355
Toll-Free: 1-800-661-0793
Website: NWT Student Financial Assistance
Read Our Complete Guide: Financial Aid for Canadian Students with Disabilities
Provincial Financial Aid: Financial Aid for Canadian Students with Disabilities in Northwest Territories
National Charitable & Condition-Specific Organizations
Organizations offering supplemental support including funding, equipment, advocacy, and community resources
General Support Organizations:
- Rick Hansen Foundation: Focuses on removing physical and attitudinal barriers.
- March of Dimes Canada: Runs programs like the Home and Vehicle Modification Program.
- Easter Seals Canada: Provides mobility equipment funding and accessible camps.
- Neil Squire Society: Empowers people with disabilities through assistive technology and employment programs.
Condition-Specific Support:
- Muscular Dystrophy Canada: Supports those with neuromuscular disorders through equipment funding and clinic access.
- Cerebral Palsy Canada Network: Provides research and resource information for the cerebral palsy community.
- Spina Bifida & Hydrocephalus Association of Canada: Offers national programs and advocacy.
- Brain Injury Canada: A national source for education, awareness, and support.
- Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB): Offers programs and advocacy for people with sight loss.
