The Manitoba government is providing $5.6 million to the Manitoba Non-Profit Housing Association (MNPHA) to deliver a rent bank program that will support stable housing for low-income to moderate-income families.
Families Minister Rochelle Squires says the pandemic has highlighted a need to support renters experiencing an unexpected interruption of income that threatens their tenancies, “This Manitoba Rent Bank will address the immediate need created by the pandemic, providing housing stability and protection for families that are unable to pay shelter costs due to unforeseen circumstances.”
The Manitoba Rent Bank will provide interest-free loans to tenants who are behind in their rent or need to move to housing that is more suitable. The program will be administered through the MNPHA and will be delivered regionally through local rent banks.
The minister noted that rent banks provide fast-access crisis intervention loans that help families pay rent or overdue utility bills and avoid eviction.
“This investment will help to prevent homelessness and minimize strain on families and children who may otherwise have to relocate to new neighbourhoods or communities,” said Squires.
The MNPHA represents over 100 non-profit housing providers who collectively own and manage more than 24,000 affordable homes across 23 communities in Manitoba.
The province will pilot the Manitoba Rent Bank for a two-year period and evaluate the program to determine its need for future support.
