Family Services issued an Aug. 27 public-service announcement reminding Nunavummiut that the Canada-Nunavut Housing Benefit may help eligible people renting in the private market. The notice says renters must live in Nunavut, rent a private-market unit and pay more than 24 per cent of household income on rent. It also says support with moving and resetting costs may be available. Source↗

The benefit may reduce rent costs for some people who are not in public, staff or student housing. The government’s program page says it covers the difference between 24 per cent of household income and market rent while a household works toward a more permanent housing option. It does not cover all rent or guarantee eligibility. Source↗

People seeking information can contact the Department of Family Services at 1-867-975-5261, email [email protected], or speak with their local housing office. The program page says referrals may come from social workers, Income Assistance staff, shelters or Nunavut Housing Corporation, and that Family Services and shelter-worker referrals are prioritized. Source↗

Residents in subsidized public, staff or student housing are not eligible, according to the Aug. 27 notice. The program page describes the benefit as temporary and says it is intended for individuals and families in crisis, people leaving shelters and youth transitioning out of care. The page says delivery is planned from 2021 to 2028. Source↗ Source↗