By meadowlakeNOW

M.L. housing authority hoping new rules for seniors fill vacancies

Jan 16, 2018 | 2:58 PM

With new rules from the Saskatchewan Housing Corporation, staff with the Meadow Lake Housing Authority hopes to fill a number of local senior-based vacancies.

On Nov. 1, 2017, new guidelines came into place that will make it a bit easier for more seniors to be approved. Adults aged 55 are now permitted, as the minimum age used to be 60. The asset limit is now set at $300,000 instead of the previous $250,000. Income limits also changed from $42,000 per single senior and $50,000 per couple. The asset and income limits are waived for those with disabilities who require a persons a fully accessible space.

Barb Arnold, Manager of Meadow Lake Housing Authority said the rules typically coincided with the markets, but she said with these new rules, she hopes more people will inquire about their eligibility.

“It should open up a wide range of people,” she said. “The Government of Saskatchewan has also expanded the senior housing program in smaller communities, which gives seniors access to housing units that are unable to be filled by social housing clients even if their income and assets are higher than social housing program limits. We now have the ability to be a bit more flexible.”

There are currently 20 senior vacant suites in the four seniors living complexes in Meadow Lake including Meadow Manor, the Golden West Manor, two villas and a number of condos in various areas of the city. Rent is set at 30 per cent of monthly income to a maximum of $795 for a single and $940 for a couple. For instance, a monthly income of $1,500 would equate to a rent of $450.

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Arnold said Meadow Lake’s senior social housing buildings have been renovated in recent years, and are designed to encourage a community.

“Our senior buildings aren’t just about having a place to rent,” she said. “You’re in a building where there’s other people your age, people look out for each other, there’s a lounge, there’s potlucks. There’s companionship. And our buildings are secure. Our main purpose is to provide safe affordable adequate housing to seniors and families.”

There are also specialized programs available, like Life Lease, which is for those who receive incomes above the limits. It appeals to those who may have trouble affording market rents. To curb the issue, Life Lease users can pay a deposit on an apartment style unit, and then pay occupancy fees.

In general, Arnold said she hopes people visit the local office to find out more.

“We encourage anyone 55 and up to come talk to us in person, take a tour of the facilities,” she said. “Maybe a couple years ago, they didn’t qualify, now they may.”

kathy.gallant@jpbg.ca  

On Twitter @ReporterKath