The contractor that the GNWT hired to organize an on-the-land camp along the Ingraham Trail to accommodate homeless people is sharing the biggest takeaways from the project.
Despite some of its criticisms — namely a lack of funding and poor choice of location — a spokesperson for NWT Integration and Community Services (ICS) said the non-governmental organization would be happy to run the camp again.
ICS was responsible for hosting 10 to 25 residents at a time at 'Camp Connections' for 10 weeks, starting late November 2024. The GNWT gave ICS close to $600,000 to run the site.
According to some of the residents there, the camp was having a positive affect on their lives, and they'd be happy if it was extended. In a statement to NNSL Media, Eric Neba, executive director at ICS, said the overall experience at Camp Connections was a pleasant and useful one.
"We would definitely do this camp again if given the opportunity," he said.
Still, it seems there were some troubles. Neba pointed out six in particular.
He said the camp's location was not adequately prepared for cold weather, which affected the comfort and safety of residents. It offered insulated, dorm-style cabins heated by wood stoves.
"Future camps will prioritize winterized facilities," said Neba.
He added that there was not enough funding for cultural activities, noting that more resources are needed to ensure the depth and range of activities. Neba pointed to gender-specific cultural activities in particular.
Behaviour management was another challenge ICS faced, according to Neba.
"Clearer policies and training in de-escalation techniques will be implemented to manage challenging behaviours effectively," he said.
That also pairs with Neba's next note: having a more robust intake process. He said his organization would better assess client readiness and compatibility with the camp's environment, which could have helped with behavioural management.
"The lack of cellphone coverage emphasized the need for alternative communication solutions, such as satellite phones, for safety and coordination," Neba added as yet another challenge faced.
Neba said that future camps will need to ensure on-site accommodation for staff, to help with well-being and logistical support as well. He also said that future sites for the homeless should include specific funding for one-on-one counselling to address personal challenges in a confidential setting.
A major lesson learned from the project includes having a structured program to help clients reintegrate into their communities after departing the camp, which could aid in reducing relapses or isolation, according to Neba.
Despite its adversities, he said participants expressed high levels of satisfaction with the camp, citing a supportive environment and a range of activities as reasons why.
"Many clients felt that the camp gave them the opportunity to connect with their cultural traditions in a meaningful way," he stated.
A significant number of clients also demonstrated a strong dedication to staying sober, Neba added. He also mentioned that many participants used the camp as a chance to stay sober in preparation for treatment outside the NWT.
"For some, the camp was a crucial turning point in their journey toward lasting recovery," he said.
NNSL Media reached out to the Department of Finance for comment in response to Neba's remarks. In an email sent on Jan. 21, Beau Stobbs, a communications officer with the department, said the GNWT values the feedback of its partners and stakeholders, including the NWT ICS.
Stobbs added that the camp ended on Friday, Jan. 17 and as of Jan. 21, the GNWT had not yet debriefed with ICS, nor had it been informed of Neba's remarks.
"We are awaiting a full report from NWT ICS, which is due on Feb. 16. This report will provide a more comprehensive understanding of the camp’s operations, including areas for improvement and lessons learned," said Stobbs. "Until then, we remain committed to reviewing all feedback thoroughly and using it to inform our approach to future initiatives."