BC’s provincial government is providing rent relief to low-income families and seniors.
According to a statement from BC Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing, effective September 1, the average monthly subsidy for low-income families under the BC Rental Assistance Program is increasing by approximately $67, or 17 per cent, from $405 to $472. Qualification for benefits is open to households with a gross annual income of $40,000, which is an increase from $35,000.
City of Powell River councillor Maggie Hathaway, who holds the housing portfolio on council, said the low-income family subsidies are available only to the working poor. Those already on assistance do not qualify.
The province is also raising benefits for the Shelter Aid for Elderly Renters (SAFER) program.
The average monthly payment for SAFER recipients will increase by approximately $78, or 42 per cent, from $187 to $265.
“Too many people aren’t able to enjoy the peace of mind that comes with having secure rental housing,” said BC minister of municipal affairs and housing Selina Robinson in a statement on August 30. “They worry each month about how to pay their rent, feed their families and meet their needs.”
Some seniors are struggling to pay their bills, and some are even forced to choose between paying for medications or paying rent, according to the statement.
The announcement that more people will be eligible and more financial assistance is available is welcome news to Powell River organizations that deal directly with low-income residents and seniors trying to find housing during the current rental crisis.
The rental assistance for the working poor families is underutilized in Powell River, according to housing advocates.
“It's a great program and giving more people access to it is a very good step,” said Inclusion Powell River chief executive officer Lilla Tipton. “A better informed community will ensure that those needing this assistance are more likely to get access to it.”
That view is shared by Powell River General Hospital social worker, mental health and in-patient psychiatry, Rebecca Withers.
“It is our feeling that many in Powell River do not realize these programs exist, nor do they realize they are likely eligible to apply,” said Withers. “Any program that provides direct financial assistance towards rental costs is of benefit to our community. It is our hope that more education and information sharing can be done regarding these two programs so as many eligible applicants apply as possible.”
The vacancy rate in Powell River is 0.5 per cent. For many residents, average rents of $800 are beyond their means.
“It goes to supply and demand,” said Hathaway. “Right now there is a real lack in supply and a big demand. Once all the proposed projects come on line the rent subsidies will make them more affordable.”
