Endacho Healing Society Shows How Trauma Healing Lodge Advances the Assembly’s Healing Priorities
June 19, 2026
Endacho Healing Society presents to Standing Committee on the Trauma Healing Lodge.
Endacho Healing Society made a presentation to the Legislative Assembly’s Standing Committee on Social Development on June 16, 2026 sharing the progress being made toward establishing the Northwest Territories' first Indigenous-led Trauma Healing Lodge.
The presentation highlighted both the significant momentum behind the initiative and the important work that remains ahead. Committee members heard about the Society's successful land-based trauma healing pilot programs, the development of an eight-week trauma-specific healing curriculum, the completion of a comprehensive feasibility study and business plan, and the $7 million federal capital commitment already secured for the Lodge. Endacho Healing Society also provided an update on the Tripartite Working Group involving the Government of the Northwest Territories, Indigenous Services Canada and the Society. The Working Group is focused on long-term solutions for both capital and operational funding to support the future success of the Lodge.
Committee members engaged in a thoughtful discussion about the proposed operating model, referral pathways, pilot program outcomes, staffing, accreditation, and the long-term sustainability of the Lodge. The Society shared how the Trauma Healing Lodge will complement existing health and addictions services by addressing the underlying trauma that often contributes to many of the social, health and wellness challenges experienced across the territory. The presentation reinforced a simple but important message: trauma healing has been identified as a priority for the Legislative Assembly, and the Trauma Healing Lodge represents a unique opportunity to turn that priority into meaningful action. While significant planning has been completed and strong partnerships continue to develop, sustainable operational funding remains the key piece needed to bring this vision to life for Northerners.
Endacho Healing Society extends its sincere thanks to the Standing Committee on Social Development for the opportunity to share its work and for the thoughtful discussion that followed. We appreciate the Committee's interest, encouragement, and ongoing commitment to improving access to Indigenous-led healing services in the Northwest Territories.
The Society remains committed to working collaboratively with Indigenous governments, community partners, and all levels of government to bring this vision to life and create lasting pathways to healing for future generations.