August 5, 2016
Northern Manitobans Among Those to Benefit from $7-Million Increase to Rent Assist: Fielding
Manitoba’s new government announced more than 1,000 northern Manitobans are among those who will receive additional support through the Rent Assist program, following an increased investment of $7 million in Budget 2016, Families Minister Scott Fielding announced today.
“Stable and affordable housing benefits every aspect of a family’s life, in northern Manitoba and in communities across the province,” said Fielding. “Funding available through Rent Assist helps create a bridge out of poverty, supporting Manitobans who are pursuing training or education, or might otherwise have to cut back on their families’ necessities due to the cost of housing.”
Rent Assist is a financial benefit for low-income families and individuals who pay more than 25 per cent of their income on rent. Rate changes that came into effect in July will increase the amount of funding available to many households including those receiving employment and income assistance, the minister said. The amount provided to a family is based on the number of people in the household and total household income, up to a maximum of 75 per cent of median market rental rates.
Fielding noted this change means a single individual can now receive up to $533 per month to help cover housing costs. In total, Rent Assist is available to more than 26,000 low-income people across Manitoba who rent privately owned housing.
For more information about Rent Assist, including eligibility guidelines, visit: www.gov.mb.ca/jec/eia/rentassist/.
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