Housing after leaving
Finding a place to live is often the most urgent challenge after leaving. There are more options than most people know, from emergency shelter tonight to longer-term subsidized housing.
What to know first
- Emergency shelters and transition houses can take you in tonight, with children, with pets in many cases, and without an appointment. You don't need to have left permanently to go.
- Second-stage housing offers longer-term, affordable, supported housing after the immediate crisis. Stays of 6 months to 2 years are common.
- Apply for subsidized housing through your province as soon as possible. Waitlists can be long, so apply early.
- Provincial housing benefits and rent supplements may be available right away, especially if you're on social assistance.
- In most provinces, landlords can't legally refuse to rent to you because you receive social assistance.
- If your name is on a joint lease, a lawyer or tenant advocacy group can help you understand your options for staying or leaving safely.
Canadian resources
Tenant rights
Search '[your province] tenant rights' for information about your lease