The province has invested $69,581 in the city's rent bank, an institution which helps people in financial trouble avoid eviction.
The grant comes from the provincial rent bank program (PRBP).
“While there is always work to be done, I am pleased that since 2004 the Provincial Rent Bank Program has averted 543 evictions in Greater Sudbury,” Sudbury MPP Rick Bartolucci said, in a press release.
Under the PRBP, a tenant who is facing eviction for non-payment of rent can apply to the local rent bank to receive financial assistance. If an application is approved, the outstanding rent is paid directly to the landlord on behalf of the tenant.
Tenants can apply for assistance once every two years, and may receive a maximum assistance of two months’ rental arrears if approved.In 2009, as part of its Poverty Reduction Strategy, the province committed $5 million per year for the Rent Bank program.
“Our Provincial Rent Bank Program has enabled thousands of tenants to avoid eviction and remain in their homes,” concluded Bartolucci. “By providing a stable $5 million per year in funding to this important program, our government is helping to ensure the housing stability for more tenants who are at risk of homelessness.”
