In October 2006, the BC Government announced a Rental Assistance Program that is supposed to give rental subsidies to low income working families. For information on how to apply, go to: How to apply to the Rental Assistance Program

You may be eligible to for the Rental Assistance Program if you meet the following criteria:

• Some or all of your annual income must come from employment.
• You have at least one or more dependent child under the age of 19.
• You have an annual income below $28,000.
• Some or all of your annual income comes from employment.
• You have less than $10,000 in assets.
• You file an annual income tax return.
• You pay more than 30 per cent of your household income towards rent for your home, or pay pad rental for a manufactured home (trailer) that you own and occupy.
• You have lived in British Columbia for the full 12 months immediately preceding the date of application.
• You meet the residency requirements for the program.

You will not be eligible for the Rental Assistance Program if:

• You live in subsidized housing.
• You live in co-operative housing and are a shareholder.
• You or your family receive income assistance under the B.C. Employment and Assistance Act (excluding the Medical Services Plan).
• You own a home that you do not live in.
• You or a member of your family do not meet the residency requirements or came to Canada under a private sponsorship agreement that is still in force.