May 15, 2008

Ontario is helping more low-income renters in Hamilton and area stay in their homes by allocating $135,989 to the local rent bank.

The Rent Bank Program enables a tenant who is facing eviction for non-payment of rent to apply to the local rent bank to receive financial assistance. 

If a tenant’s application is approved, the outstanding rent is paid directly to the landlord on behalf of the tenant.

Tenants can apply for financial assistance from a rent bank no more than once in two years, and receive maximum assistance for two months’ rental arrears.

The Ontario government will be developing a long-term strategy for affordable housing as part of its poverty reduction strategy.  The strategy will build on the broad range of programs and services that are already helping more Ontarians work build and contribute to a stronger economy.

QUOTES

“This new funding ensures the rent bank in Hamilton area will continue to help low-income tenants avoid eviction due to a missed rent payment,” said Ted McMeekin, MPP Ancaster-Dundas-Flamborough-Westdale. 

“Short-term arrears are the most common reason tenants with lower incomes lose their homes and are forced into shelters,” said SophiaAggelonitisMPPHamiltonMountain. “Thankfully the rent bank program provides relief when tenants face this tough situation.”

QUICK FACTS

§         To date, the Rent Bank Program has prevented more than 13,200 low-income households from being evicted due to a missed rent payment. 

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For further information, please contact

Ted McMeekin, MPP  905-690-6552