The Province is now supporting the federal government in assisting British Columbian survivors of gender-based violence in finding affordable housing.
The Canada-BC Housing Benefit (CBCHB) is contributing an investment of nearly $37 million over four years to this cause, with the Province cost matching the Canadian government’s investment.
This benefit will specifically go towards helping survivors of gender-based violence, including women, their children and 2SLGBTQI+ individuals transition into secure rental housing from the precarious and dangerous situations they are escaping.
According to the Province, this support will help nearly 1,700 individuals or households while they are at their most vulnerable while leaving violence, or on the brink of experiencing homelessness.
“Access to housing and supports is vital for the safety and wellbeing of everyone, especially survivors of gender-based violence,” said Ravi Kahlon, BC Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs.
“The new rent assistance will provide critical financial relief, helping people cover their monthly rent and maintain housing. By easing the burden of rent, we help provide people the stability they need, enabling communities to thrive and get stronger.”
The need for this type of support arises as the BC and federal governments recognize that many people escaping gender-based violence are suffering financial abuse, or face barriers that often prevent them from leaving.
This funding will be doled out by BC Housing, and those who receive it will be identified through referrals from non-profit housing providers, agencies and organizations working with people leaving gender-based violence, or applicants who have applied to BC Housing’s registry.
On average, the benefit will provide $600 per month to those who are eligible, and will be determined based on income, family size and the rental market conditions.
“Supporting survivors of gender-based violence, including women, children and 2SLGBTQIA+ people experiencing or at risk of violence, is a priority of the provincial government,” said Jennifer Blatherwick, BC Parliamentary Secretary for Gender Equity.
“This investment in rent assistance provides much-needed support for people affected by violence and those struggling to secure housing, aiding them as they take their next steps toward safety and stability.”
While this federal CBCHB funding is not new, it is now being supported by the BC government to help survivors of gender-based violence.
