“SAFER is the best program the B.C. government offers; it’s allowed me to have a decent lifestyle.” Those are the words of 61-year-old Kelowna resident Mary.* She’s talking about Shelter Aid For Elderly Renters, a provincial government program that helps make rents affordable for B.C. seniors with low to moderate incomes. SAFER provides monthly cash payments for eligible seniors age 60 or over who pay rent for their homes.

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.

“Since I started receiving SAFER last year, there’s been a big improvement in my life. I’m very careful with money and always watch my budget. I have enough now to cover my rent, utilities, food, and my basic needs. I’m very grateful for this program; it’s been a saviour for me.”

Assistance through the SAFER program has meant Mary has been able to stay in the same apartment she has lived in for close to eight years. “I don’t like moving,” she said, “and I have a very good landlord here. It’s also close to shopping and my doctor’s office and there’s a bus stop right outside the building. I would like to live here a very long time and SAFER allows me to do that.”

*The client’s name has been changed to protect her privacy.