Lanark County and the County of Renfrew are pleased to introduce a Portable Housing Benefit Pilot Program that provides a portable housing benefit paid directly to the survivor of domestic violence.
Under the program, the survivor of domestic violence will be paid a Portable Housing Benefit of $275.00 per month for an adult household or $375.00 per month for a family household. Successful applicants can receive the Portable Housing Benefit for a maximum of two years ending March 31, 2018. Successful applicants will be asked to provide data throughout the program to assist in assessing program success.
Participants in the Portable Housing Benefit Program may remain on the waitlist for Rent-Geared-to-Income Housing, placed on hold, or be removed from the list. The Portable Housing Benefit program will run from July 2016 – March 2018.
Chair of the County of Renfrew Social Services Committee, Councillor John Reinwald said, “In 2013, the County of Renfrew 10-Year Housing and Homelessness Plan showed an increased need for safe and supportive housing for survivors of domestic violence. Tragedy strikes too often and the importance of partnerships, communication and supports are shown to be vital for the safety of survivors of domestic violence”.
Through a partnership between Lanark County and the County of Renfrew survivors of domestic violence also have the option of choosing to live in either County while receiving the portable housing benefit. This program is funded with support from the Government of Ontario, and the Government of Canada.
To be eligible for the program applicants must be a resident of Lanark or Renfrew Counties with an appropriate status in Canada, must have filed their latest Income Tax Return, must be eligible for Special Priority Status under the Housing Services Act, 2011, must not be receiving rent-geared-to-income or any other rental subsidy, and must have a current family income below Household Income Limits. Applicants can choose to live in either County, and are encouraged to locate a rental unit that is suitable for their needs.
