Survivors of gender-based violence will be getting rent support from the BC and federal governments.
The BC Government announced that nearly $37 million will be invested by the Government of Canada to help survivors, including women, children, and 2SLGBTQIA++ people get and keep rental housing in the private market. BC will provide an equal cost match for support.
The goal of this funding is to help those struggling after leaving violence and are experiencing homelessness, financial abuse, or barriers to some benefits.
Federal Minister of Housing, Infrastructure, and Communities Nathaniel Erksine-Smith says giving survivors access to safe and affordable housing is key to ending the cycle of violence.
“This investment will provide nearly 1,700 families affected by gender-based violence with a place to call home,” said Erksine-Smith.
The province says the funding will be given to qualifying homes through BC Housing, with an average of $600 provided each month per home based on income, family size, and rent.
The money will be provided over four years.
