Province Announces Redesigned Rent Supplement Programs

On Friday, March 26 the Government of Alberta announced the Rental Assistance Redesign to the provincial rent supplement program.

The redesign provides housing support for 11,600 households across Alberta – an increase of 3,800 from current levels.

Calgary Housing Company manages rent supplement programs for the Province in Calgary where there are currently approximately 2,000 households receiving rent supplement support.

The province has indicated that the changes are intended to respond to the needs of working households while still providing support for the most vulnerable. Critically, the changes to the program will have no impact on benefit levels for the most vulnerable, particularly those receiving AISH or Income Supports.

CHC is working with the Province to understand the details of the changes, specific budget allocation for Calgary and details of both changes for existing program participants and the rollout of new programs.

Starting April 1, CHC will be accepting applications for the Rent Assistance Benefit. Formerly, the Direct to Tenant Rent Supplement, this long-term benefit will continue to subsidize low income Albertans.

Starting May 1, CHC will be accepting applications for the Temporary Rent Assistance Benefit. This new benefit will provide a modest subsidy to help eligible tenants afford their rent while they stabilize or improve their situation.

You do not have to submit a new application if you are already on the CHC waitlist and you identified Rent Supplement as one of your program selections. If you have an active application but are unsure if you selected Rent Supplement as an option, please call (587) 390-1200 to confirm your information.

Additional information about the redesigned Rental Assistance programs will be posted on this site as it becomes available.

For more information, you can view the Government of Alberta announcement here.