NR NRI seniors in BC, now qualify for assistance from June 01, 2006
( 10-year Canadian residency requirement chaged to one year )

BC, May 30, 2006
Dr. Kartar Gill

From June 1, 2006, low income seniors who rent their homes and who have lived in B.C. for one year will be eligible to apply for Shelter Aid for Elderly Renters (SAFER). The Province of British Columbia has now removed the 10-year Canadian residency requirement for Shelter Aid for Elderly Renters (SAFER) eligibility.

“This government is committed to building the best system of support in Canada for seniors and helping them live as independently as possible,” Coleman said. “This change to SAFER will expand access to a program that provides independence and financial security to low income seniors.”

Coleman also announced a second amendment to the program that will help seniors offset rising heating costs. Effective July 1, 2006, the heat allowance available through SAFER will be increased by $10 a month to a maximum of $35. Seniors eligible for the heat allowance will receive the increase at the time of their annual reapplication. This is the first increase to the SAFER heating allowance since July 1989.

“For many seniors these improvements to the SAFER program will greatly improve their quality of life,” said Ida Chong, Minister Responsible for Seniors’ Issues. “These are the people who helped to build our province, and who are richly deserving of this support.”

SAFER provides direct cash assistance to British Columbians aged 60 or older who pay rent for their homes. On average, seniors involved in the SAFER program receive $169 a month.

NRI, Surrey MLA, Dave S. Hayer said that this announcement is a great news for NRI elderly Renter immigrants

BC Housing provides SAFER subsidies to more than 11,800 senior households renting apartments in the private market, including singles, couples and people sharing a unit.

From June 01, 2006, The changes will be:

You may be eligible for SAFER if you meet all of the following conditions:

* Be 60 years of age or older;

* Pay rent for your residence;

* Pay more than 30% of your total income for rent

* Not receiving Income Assistance

* Be a Canadian Citizen or a Landed Immigrant; and

* Have lived in BC for the full 12 months immediately preceding your date of application.

NRI Seniors wishing to apply for assistance or who are looking for more information can contact BC Housing at 1-800-257-7756.