High rents in Nanaimo mean many would be behind and unable to catch up if they find themselves in arrears. (Scott Olson/Getty Images)

By Spencer Sterritt

helping hand

Nanaimo rent bank sees sizable influx of applications for assistance

Apr 12, 2021 | 12:49 PM

NANAIMO — The recently opened rent bank in Nanaimo has helped dozens avoid homelessness.

Azura Kines, case manager with the John Howard Society who administer the program, told NanaimoNewsNOW they’ve given loans and grants to roughly 50 people since opening at the end of January, 2021.

Loans are up to $1,500 for a single person or $1,800 for a family but Kines said everyone’s needs differ.

“I’ve given out smaller loans for utility bills which can’t be paid of people in a bit of arrears. I’ve also given out loans of the maximum amount. I wouldn’t be surprised going forward if we see larger amounts being asked for, given how high our rental market is right now.”

She said seeing who was applying for assistance was an eye-opening experience.

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“If you look at stereotypes of poverty and those who end up on the street, you don’t think it could be you or your best friend but actually it could be anybody,” Kines said.

“A lot of people who’ve applied to the rent bank program have babies, small children or themselves are older. It’s crazy how one small life event can spiral so much and tumble down a big hill to all of a sudden you’re homeless.”

Despite the high uptake in the program, Kines said the remaining funding will keep the rent bank open for some time.

The City of Nanaimo provided $90,000 in funding for the rent bank. A further $135,600 will be added if the City receives a substantial grant from the federal government.

Loans for the rent bank are designed to be easily re-paid and in some cases waived.

Anyone seeking assistance from the rent bank can apply online.

Join the conversation. Submit your letter to NanaimoNewsNOW and be included on The Water Cooler, our letters to the editor feature.

spencer@nanaimonewsnow.com

On Twitter: @SpencerSterritt