One of the 200+ house insecure tenants – including 144 children and 88 adults – impacted by the drawdown of the rent support scheme in Durham, has reached out to Durham Post, saying she has nowhere to go.
“I am part of The Salvation Army preventing homeless program that has been cut by the government. I have been so depressed since being notified the program is shut down,” said 60-year old Margaret Jackson (name changed on request).
The program was run by the Salvation Army, which guaranteed the rent. Durham Region financially supported by scheme. The Regional Municipality of Durham has blamed the Salvation Army, of mis-reporting. The latter has refuted the charges and, in turn, blamed the region for not continuing the program for the benefit of the affected individuals (see below).
The program continues to run in the regions of York and Peel.
“I have been so depressed and crying at the thought I have to move,” said Margaret, who has worked for the past 40 years and now suffers with a bad back.
Can’t Stay Even At Market Rent
“I asked the landlord to make the rent market rent so I can stay. They stated it’s not possible. I don’t know what to do. It’s going to be cold soon and I am 60-years old. I don’t have a lot of money and don’t know what to do. I can’t eat or sleep,” said a clearly emotional Margaret.
“I am on the Durham housing wait list but it’s years before I am on the top of the list. I choose homes every week but they say if I am abused by a partner, then I [can] go on [to] the top of the list,” she said.
“I am on the list for Durham Portable Housing Benefit (PHB) and Canada-Ontario Housing Benefit (COBH) but I have to wait. I don’t know what else to do. We need help!” she pleaded.
Landlords, who gave their properties for the affordable housing program too are impacted as they cannot afford to keep the program tenants on as their rent is not guaranteed anymore. One landlord is faced with a big renovation bill on their program properties.
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