SUPPORTING WOMEN IN CRISIS TO SECURE AND MAINTAIN SAFE HOUSING
HOMELESS PREVENTION PROGRAM
The Homeless Prevention Program (HPP) is a BC Housing initiative delivered by NOW Canada. NOW Canada’s program provides short-term rental supplements to eligible single women who are either homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.
These supplements help single women secure or maintain housing in the private rental market by assisting with essential housing costs. These supports may include a rent top-up or “bridge” funding – offered to either quickly help a woman move into stable housing or prevent an eviction before it happens.
Who is Eligible?
The program assists applicants who meet the following requirements:
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Single women, with or without dependent children
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Homeless or at-risk of becoming homeless due to crisis or transition
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Proven financial need
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Living in the Kelowna area (Peachland to Lake Country)
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Not currently receiving another rent subsidy
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In addition, applicants meet at least one of the following eligibility requirements:
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Youth (24 years of age or younger)
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Victims of violence or those that are at risk of violence
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Those leaving the correctional or hospital system
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Women who identify as Indigenous
What Can Rent Supplements Be Used For?
Rental supplements can be used for a variety of purposes to aid in securing and/or maintaining housing such as:
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A portion of rent
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A portion of damage/security deposit
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Payment towards outstanding utility bills
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Start-up costs (i.e. food, dishes)
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Other reasonable expenses related to securing or maintaining housing
Housing Support
NOW Canada’s Housing Support Coordinator can assist with:
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Referring to additional support services
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Referring to suitable housing options
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Mediating between tenants and landlords
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Developing a housing case plan
Important Program Details
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Applicants whose rent is paid directly by the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) are responsible for reporting any changes to MSD
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Rent supplement cheques will be payable directly to the landlord or vendor
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Participants will receive a 6- & 12-month follow-up call or email
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All activities and supports are tracked in the BC Housing database
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Rental supplements cannot be used to pay rent for applicants who are living in government-subsidized housing or who are already receiving provincial rental assistance (e.g., RAP or SAFER)
How to Apply
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Apply Online
Begin by completing the online application form -
Gather Required Documents The following supporting documents in PDF format are required:
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Bank Profile (account summary showing all accounts)
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60 Days of Current Bank Statements (from all accounts)
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Signed Lease Agreement
Send Documents To:
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Email: hpp@nowcanada.ca
Mail or Drop-off:
NOW Canada – Attention HPP
2970 Tutt Street
Kelowna BC V1Y 8Z5
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