In response to recommendations from community members at the BC Poverty Reduction Meeting hosted by Sunshine Coast Community Services (SCCSS) in March, SCCSS, Sunshine Coast Credit Union and The Co-operators have come together to create a new service that will play a role in addressing the key issue brought up across the province: housing.
In August, the Keeping People Housed initiative will launch to support individuals experiencing a temporary financial crisis. Tenants facing the potential for eviction, or the termination of their utilities, will be able to apply for a short-term interest-free loan through SCCSS. Applicants will be required to qualify based on specific criteria including minimum income verification.
Keeping People Housed will also provide applicants with advocacy, financial literacy and referral support tailored to the needs of the individual in crisis. This SCCSS service is made possible because of the funding provided by Sunshine Coast Credit Union and The Co-operators.
SCCSS is hosting an information session on Aug. 8 for service providers on the Coast to learn about eligibility requirements, and ways to connect with the program. Applications to the program will be accepted starting on Aug. 27.
To learn more about Keeping People Housed contact Andrea Hobbs, Volunteer Coordinator, SCCSS at [email protected]
