Province Boosts Housing Allowances

Province Boosts Housing Allowances

Wednesday, August 29, 2007 at 16:08

A Saskatoon Metis organization is welcoming financial help from the provincial government for the housing crisis — but says more still needs to be done.

Shirley Isbister, the president of the Central Urban Metis Federation Inc., says it’s difficult going into work every day because she hears from families with no place to live.

The provincial government is trying to alleviate that stress by providing increases to the shelter rate, rental housing supplement and training allowance.

Minister responsible Judy Junor says the $5-to-$75 increases are just the beginning.

Isbister hopes that includes more spaces, because she says CUMFI’s affordable housing has a waiting list of 200 families and individuals.

The provincial government is also setting up a toll-free line for those who are having trouble finding affordable housing.

It will provide information on government programs, community organizations and other services that may be able to help.