Rent bank to assist Vancouver renters facing eviction
Posted October 14, 2011 9:34 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
VANCOUVER (NEWS1130) – People in Vancouver having trouble paying their rent will now be able to go to a rent bank.
The bank is meant to help renters deal with unexpected financial situations, where they’re unable to pay rent, and are facing eviction.
It’s designed to cover a portion of rents temporarily, and applicants typically have to demonstrate that they will be able to pay it back. The micro loans are already available in Surrey and Langley.
Sharon Isaak with Renters at Risk says there are plenty of people who have lost their homes because of some sort of emergency in their lives.
“A particular lady was working and had an injury. Her income was reduced for several months, and one month a cheque came late. She lost her housing. She was evicted and she was forced to leave the city,” she points out.
And the bank could come in handy for those fighting their rent hikes. “They would help renters in Vancouver if they face a sudden rent increase. The banks could loan them money to cover the rent while they pursue the matter at the Residential Tenancy Branch.”
