Over 35,000 households across the province will be getting help paying their rent.
The federal and provincial governments are each allocating $222 million for the Canada-Alberta Housing Benefit which in return will support Alberta’s Rent Supplement Program.
Households with the lowest income will get support until 2028 with the funds also backtracking to 2019.
“Everyone deserves a safe and affordable place to call home,” said Ahmed Hussen, Federal Minister of Families, Children and Social Development and Minister responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation.
“We are taking another significant step toward our goal of building strong communities where Albertans continue to prosper and thrive, now and for generations to come.”
To be eligible in Fort McMurray and surrounding areas, you can’t make more than certain thresholds set for bachelor suites as well as one, two, three, and four bedroom properties.
It’s currently set at $40,000 for bachelor, $51,500 for one-bedroom, $62,500 for two-bedrooms, $72,500 for three-bedrooms, and $84,500 for four-bedrooms.
The thresholds are bigger for those who live in Fort McKay, Fort Chipewyan, Conklin, and Janvier which is making it easier for residents to be eligible.
They’re currently set at $62,000 for a one-bedroom, $72,500 for two-bedrooms, $82,000 for three-bedrooms, and $88,000 for four-bedrooms.
“I am pleased the program changes have put us in a position to maximize federal funding and provide rent support to even more Albertans, especially during this difficult time,” added Josephine Pon, Alberta Minister of Seniors and Housing.
More information, including how to apply, can be found on the GoA’s website.