SASKATCHEWAN RENTAL HOUSING SUPPLEMENT NOW TAKING APPLICATIONS

The telephone lines are now open for applicants for the Saskatchewan Rental Housing Program that was announced by Premier Lorne Calvert last month. The program is the first of its kind in Canada for low-income families and people with disabilities to help them find affordable housing that meets health and safety standards. The program is an investment of $10 million by the provincial government.

"The Saskatchewan Rental Housing Supplement is a new and groundbreaking program that underscores our belief that a safe, prosperous Saskatchewan begins at home," Community Resources Minister and Minister Responsible for Disability Issues Joanne Crofford said.

The supplement is unique in that:

- landlords must ensure their properties meet basic health and safety standards;

- the supplement is available to individuals and families on social assistance and in the workforce; and

- the supplement is paid to the applicant, allowing added flexibility and choice to seek out the most appropriate housing for their needs.

The fourth aspect is the innovative service delivery using the Building Independence Contact Centre. Clients can apply by simply calling the Contact Centre and have no long forms to fill out. Applicants should have the Saskatchewan Health Card numbers of all family members in the household, their Social Insurance Numbers for themselves and spouses if applicable, all income received by themselves and their spouses for the last month, information about child or spousal support received in the last month, and their monthly rent amount and whether heating costs are included in the rent.

For those living outside of Regina, can call toll-free 1-888-488-6385. TTY users outside of Regina, can call 1-800-683-9052. In Regina, applicants can call 787-4723 or 787-1090 TTY if required. Landlords requesting information about repair programs, can call 1-800-667-7567. The Contact Centre will be open from Monday to Friday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and on Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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For More Information, Contact:

Greg Urbanoski Community Resources and Employment Regina Phone: (306) 787-4011 Cell: (306) 537-2879