New initiative launched to support those in temporary financial crisis on the Coast

A new initiative will launch on the Sunshine coast to support those experiencing temporary financial crisis.

The concept is in response to recommendations from community members at the BC Poverty Reduction Meeting hosted by Sunshine Coast Community Services (SCCSS) in March. The new service is a joint endeavor by SCCSS, the Sunshine Coast Credit Union and The Co-operators.

The Keeping People Housed initiative will launch this month to assist tenants facing the potential for eviction, or the termination of their utilities. Those in need will be able to apply for a short term interest free loan through SCCSS. Applicants will be required to qualify based on specific criteria including minimum income verification. Keeping People Housed will also provide applicants with advocacy, financial literacy and referral support tailored to the needs of the individual in crisis.

“Our role at Community Services is to provide programs that create opportunities for people on the Coast to achieve their full potential. We have developed new programs that address housing and employment which are issues impacting the health of our community” said Catherine Leach, Executive Director, SCCSS.

An information session will be held on August 8th for service providers to learn about eligibility requirements, and ways to connect with the program. Applications to the program will be accepted starting on August 27th.

In addition to the new initiative, SCCSS is in the early stages of planning a redevelopment that will provide affordable housing for women and community services together in one location. According to a press release the proposed development will ’embrace a mix of women including single women, women and children, single women who are older, and young women who are aging out of care; creating a community of women and families who have similar life experiences such as struggles with homelessness, poverty and experiences of violence/abuse’.

The development will bring the majority of SCCSS programs located in Sechelt to one main location and will reduce barriers to service and increase opportunities for individuals and families, particularly for those with complex challenges, to access a variety of services in one location.