Anita encourages other seniors who may be eligible for SAFER to put aside any embarrassment they may have about applying. “Everyone I’ve dealt with was so friendly and understanding. They reassured me I’m managing my finances well but the subsidy is really helping.” Read more.

Because SAFER subsidies are calculated to give the most assistance to people with the least income, Bonita saw her subsidy increase when her other sources of income decreased. “For three years I had CPP, plus some money from dog and house sitting and acting as an extra in the movies while I looked for part-time work,” she said. “The SAFER subsidy made my rent more affordable and meant I didn’t have to move from my apartment.” Read more.

Christa started receiving payments in February and couldn’t be happier. “I won’t have to worry so much about covering my utilities and grocery bills,” she said. “And, I’m still able to drive, so the SAFER payments will also help with gas and insurance.” Read more.

“SAFER has definitely helped with my rent,” said Dorothy. “The extra cash each month means I can stay in my apartment where I’ve lived for 32 years. I can still manage by myself and it’s important for me to stay in this community.” Read more.

Grace knows her neighbourhood well. For the past 40-odd years, she has lived in the same suite in a low-rise building on a quiet street in Vancouver. She’s close to shopping and transit, which makes it easy to get around. And, as a long-term tenant, her rent is kept at a reasonable amount. At age 69, Grace says she is not a struggling senior, but she still has to watch her budget carefully and is even thinking of looking for part-time work. Read more.

Mary left an abusive husband several years ago and poor health has prevented her from working and being able to save for retirement. The amount she receives from the Canada Pension Plan is not enough to cover her expenses, so the extra assistance she receives from SAFER makes a world of difference to her. Read more.

Are you eligible?

BC Housing provides SAFER subsidies to more than 15,000 senior households renting apartments in the private market, including singles, couples and people sharing a unit.

You may be eligible for SAFER if you meet all of the following conditions:

You are 60 or older.
You have lived in British Columbia for the full 12 months immediately preceding your application.
You and your spouse (with whom you are living) meet one of the following citizenship requirements: Canadian citizen(s); or authorized to take up permanent residence in Canada; or Convention refugee(s).
You pay more than 30 per cent of your gross (before tax) monthly household income towards the rent for your home, including the cost of pad rental for a manufactured home (trailer) that you own and occupy.

If you are eligible, SAFER may subsidize part of the rent that is over 30 per cent of your income.

To find out more about SAFER, including application forms, click here or call 604-433-2218 from Metro Vancouver or 1-800-257-7756 from elsewhere in B.C.