The Yellowknife Regional Wellness Council will convene a public meeting on March 4, 2026, to discuss mental health and addictions, and regional mental health initiatives. The meeting will run from 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM Mountain Daylight Time and will be held at the Łıwegǫ̀atì Building, Room 1026, located at 550 Byrne Rd in Yellowknife.
Residents can attend in person or participate remotely via Microsoft Teams, using Meeting ID 295 011 711 530 and Passcode fotRnE. A teleconference option is also available at 1 (867) 675-1042, requiring Passcode 556 666 457#.
The Yellowknife Regional Wellness Council functions as an advisory body to the Northwest Territories Health and Social Services Leadership Council, providing guidance on health and social services priorities, and the promotion of health and wellness within the region. The council’s role includes ensuring public concerns are considered in the delivery of services, according to information from the Northwest Territories government.
The meeting takes place as Yellowknife prepares for the opening of a new wellness and recovery centre, slated for completion in 2026. The centre, funded with $24 million from the federal government, will provide a permanent location for the city’s day shelter and sobering centre, accommodating 99 clients with 30 beds in the recovery centre and 59 seats in the day shelter. The facility will also offer access to computers, internet, laundry facilities, and a community hall.
Recent service changes in Yellowknife primary care have included the introduction of Holistic Wellness Advisors (HCWs), who provide comprehensive support integrating physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health, and triage for mental, emotional, and behavioural health concerns. These advisors collaborate with healthcare providers to develop personalized wellness plans.
The Yellowknife Regional Wellness Council is composed of seven members – six general members and a chairperson – appointed by the Minister of Health and Social Services. Members may serve up to three-year terms and are eligible for reappointment, though the Act prohibits more than three consecutive terms. The council currently does not have alternate members or a Vice-Chairperson.
Further information about the Regional Wellness Councils is available on the Governance page of the Northwest Territories Health and Social Services Authority website.
