Providing more rent support for Albertans

When we set out to redesign Alberta’s Rent Supplement Program, we had the current and future needs of Albertans in mind. We also wanted to maximize federal funding – the program had to incorporate common federal and provincial program objectives, so we could get Albertans access to funding through the Canada Housing Benefit.

I am pleased to say we succeeded.

Today, the governments of Alberta and Canada announced a $444-million combined investment ($222 million each) in the Canada-Alberta Housing Benefit between 2019 and 2028.

This new funding will flow through our redesigned Rent Supplement Program, helping around 35,000 households with low income afford their rent over the lifetime of the agreement. Not only does this updated program provide housing support to more people, it also allows renters more flexibility in their housing choice.

Alberta’s new Temporary Rent Assistance Benefit provides a subsidy for up to two years to help eligible tenants afford their rent while they stabilize or improve their finances. The Rent Assistance Benefit continues to provide long-term support for those most in need.

Alberta’s government will continue to work with other orders of government, and private and nonprofit partners, to ensure Alberta’s affordable housing system is flexible, fair and inclusive.

I encourage you to learn more about the redesigned Rent Supplement Program at Affordable housing programs.