Anita’s parents and grandparents lived through the depression and taught her the value of every nickel. Today, at age 64, she recognizes how fortunate she is if she has a $20-bill that’s not spoken for. That’s why Anita is grateful for the assistance she has just started receiving from the provincial government’s Shelter Aid For Elderly Renters (SAFER) program. SAFER helps make rents affordable for B.C. seniors with low to moderate incomes by providing monthly cash payments for eligible applicants age 60 or over who pay rent for their homes.

“The money I’m now getting from SAFER will give me a bit of leeway when it comes to budgeting,” said Anita. “When I was working I tried to plan for retirement but my savings were being eaten up very quickly. I’ve recently been through some big life changes that were unexpected. And the concern that my retirement savings won’t be sufficient is constant.

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.”