As rental prices rise in many Canadian cities, students are finding it more difficult to secure affordable housing. One program is offering an alternative that is not only easier on student wallets, but also provides support to older adults.
Canada HomeShare is an intergenerational housing initiative that matches students in need of housing with older adults with extra space in their homes. Students pay between $400 and $600 in rent per month, while also providing five to seven hours of assistance around the house or companionship. The program operates in Toronto and neighbouring Peel Region, Kingston, Ont., Vancouver, Peterborough, Ont. and, most recently, Edmonton.
Jordana Knelsen (whose pronouns are they/them) is in second year at York University and moved from Alberta to Toronto to attend classes in person for the first time this fall. While they said they also explored roommate search programs and even considered living in a van in a worst-case scenario, Canada HomeShare was their first choice. "I spoke with the social workers and read through the website, and it just seems like a really great setup," they said.
For more information
350 Albert Street, suite 1710
Ottawa Ontario
Canada K1R 1B1
www.universityaffairs.ca
