Saskatchewan Housing Benefit adds new funding stream to help victims of violence

Seeking a safe refuge from domestic violence is getting easier in Saskatchewan, thanks to new funding offered through the provincial housing benefit program.

On Wednesday, the provincial and federal governments jointly announced two new funding streams offered through the Saskatchewan Housing Benefit. The first aims to help those fleeing violence, while the second offers help to those who require special support services to live independently.

Those who have suffered violence and now wish to live independently can access the Seeking Safety from Interpersonal Violence stream, the provincial government said. Those who are leaving transitional housing, emergency shelters, or second-stage housing can access the stream, as can anyone who may have an unstable living situation.

The second new stream offers help for those who wish to live independently, but need additional support due to mental illness, addictions, or “behavioural challenges.”

To access the Supportive Housing stream, the client’s support services must be recognized by the Saskatchewan Housing Corporation and provided alongside a physical housing unit. The services can be provided directly by the housing provider, or by a third party.

In both new streams, clients will receive a monthly benefit based on the size of their home. Those living in a one-bedroom will receive $225 per month, the government said, while those with two bedrooms will qualify for $275 each month and clients with three or more bedrooms will get $325 monthly.

“The two new streams of the Saskatchewan Housing Benefit bolster our ability to help people in vulnerable situations find safe and independent housing,” Gene Makowsky, minister responsible for the Saskatchewan Housing Corporation, said in a statement.

“I am proud of our continued work to offer rental support to Saskatchewan residents.”