Rent Bank - Provincewide

Housing stabilization program offers low-fee, no interest short-term loans to low-income individuals and families who are at risk of eviction or essential utility disconnection due to a temporary and unexpected shortage of funds. Loans may also be issued for damage deposits, pet deposits, and first month's rent for low-income individuals and families who are moving into a new residence and are unable to meet these expenses. If approved, loan funds are distributed in cheque form and are written directly to the creditor. Maximum loan amount is $3500 for individuals, and $3500 for families towards rent or rent deposits. Maximum amount for essential utility arrears is $1500. Loans are repaid in monthly installments and repayment terms range between six months and 24 months. Program includes training and support in financial planning and management. Applicants must complete a pre-assessment form available online, and submit it by email, fax, or in person. Applicants must be 19 years of age or older, have a current bank account; have proof of a regular source of verifiable income which is sufficient to cover rent/living expenses; demonstrate the household is within income requirements; not be more than two months in arrears; be a Canadian citizen, landed immigrant, or permanent resident; have no undischarged bankruptcy; not be able to access any other forms of financial assistance; have two pieces of valid ID, one of which must be government-issued photo ID; demonstrate that the loan will stabilize their housing situation for 90 plus days. Serves regions across BC without their own rent bank including: Bulkley - Nechako District, Cariboo District, Central Coast District, Columbia Shuswap District, Fraser - Fort George District, Kitimat - Stikine District, Kootenay Districts, Ladner, Mount Waddington District, North Coast District, Northern Rockies District, Peace River District, Qathet District, Richmond, South Okanagan District, Squamish - Lillooet District, Strathcona District, and Tsawwassen. Office hours are 9 am to 4 pm Monday to Friday. Funded by the BC Rent Bank.