What is subsidized housing and how to get it?

Subsidized housing is housing with rents that are partially or fully covered by government or municipal support. In Calgary, as in other cities across Canada, subsidized housing is designed to help low-income people, newcomers, families in difficult circumstances, and other vulnerable populations. This system helps to ensure access to safe and affordable housing for those who cannot afford to rent on market terms.

What is subsidized housing in Calgary?

Subsidized housing is housing for which the rent is set based on the tenant's income. Part of the cost is paid by the tenant and the rest is covered by the government or special housing organizations. There are different types of subsidized housing in Calgary:

  • Social Housing: housing managed by municipal or non-profit organizations that is designed for people with low incomes.
  • Rent Supplement Programs:** financial assistance to tenants who rent in the market but need help to cover their rent.
  • Temporary housing:** shelters or housing for newcomers and homeless people that is provided for a limited period of time. In Calgary, for example, the non-profit housing company HomeSpace Society has implemented the Neoma project, a multi-storey building with 82 units of affordable housing and transitional housing shelters. Such initiatives are supported by federal, provincial, and city governments.

Who is eligible for subsidized housing?

The main categories of people who can receive subsidized housing in Calgary:

  • Low-income families;
  • Newly arrived immigrants and refugees, including participants in the CUAET program;
  • People with disabilities;
  • Seniors with limited income;
  • People in difficult life circumstances (homeless, victims of domestic violence, etc.). To receive assistance, you must meet the requirements for income, residence status and social circumstances.

How to get subsidized housing in Calgary?

1. Contacting management organizations

First, you need to contact organizations that manage subsidized housing or provide rental assistance. In Calgary, these can be:

  • Housing providers: a list of such organizations can be found on the official website of the Government of Alberta.
  • Non-governmental organizations:** for example, HomeSpace Society, Inn from the Cold, which help with housing search and social support.

2. Applying through the Fair Entry system

The City of Calgary uses the Fair Entry system, a centralized application process for subsidized housing and social services. This system assesses an applicant's income and needs and then provides recommendations on available programs.

3. Preparation of documents

To apply, you need to collect documents that confirm

  • Identity and residence status;
  • Income level;
  • Social status (e.g. marital status, presence of children, disability);
  • Other documents that can confirm the need for housing.

4. Waiting and consideration of the application

Once an application is submitted, it is reviewed by the relevant authorities. Due to the high demand for subsidized housing, the waiting time can be considerable. However, temporary housing options may be provided in case of urgent need.

Support programs for newcomers

Newcomers, including Ukrainians arriving under the CUAET program, can count on:

  • Temporary free housing for up to 14 days in Calgary;
  • One-time financial assistance to cover housing costs;
  • Counseling and support from local organizations. However, long-term subsidized housing requires a separate application and meets the general criteria.

Important points

  • Subsidized housing is not free housing, but housing with rents that depend on the tenant's income.
  • Support programs have limited resources, so it is important to apply as early as possible.
  • In parallel with applying for subsidized housing, you should actively look for housing on the market, as waiting times can be long.
  • For assistance, you can contact local organizations that provide advice and support.

Conclusion

Subsidized housing in Calgary is an effective support mechanism for low-income people, newcomers and vulnerable groups. It can be accessed through the centralized Fair Entry system or by contacting management companies and community organizations. Although the programs have limitations, they greatly facilitate access to safe and affordable housing. For newcomers, it is important to combine applying to subsidized housing programs with an active search for options on the market and the support of local organizations.