Housing Loss Prevention (Community Bridge)

Community Bridge provides support to prevent housing loss due to a disconnection or eviction notice. This is a one-time assistance program meant to be a last resort once all other options have been explored.

Services include:

• Financial case management and coaching to create a budget and a financial action plan.
• Support to locate and apply for any benefits you may be eligible to receive.
• Referrals for additional programs.
• Support to negotiate with your landlord/utility company.
• Support to create a sustainable plan for your future.
• Support with first month’s rent/damage deposit if you find more affordable housing.

You must be willing to explore all community resources available to prevent your housing loss.

If eligible, you may be able to access a no-interest loan for rental or utility arrears.

You can also receive a no interest loan for a damage deposit or first month’s rent to move into housing that better fits your budget.

Community Bridge team members will work with landlords to negotiate additional arrangements, including landlord check-ins as often as needed while you work with your case manager.

Eligibility for a Community Bridge No-Interest Loan:

• You must be currently housed, facing an eviction or current utility disconnection.
• You must have an active lease agreement.
• You must be able to afford your current housing or be willing to relocate to more affordable housing.
• You need to connect with other community resources prior to seeking support through Community Bridge.
• You must be willing to work with a case manager each month to review finance and receive budget support.
• You must provide three months of bank statements.
• You must consent to Community Bridge staff connecting with your landlord within your six months of case management support.

Community Bridge process:

1. Fill out the online application form.
2. A staff member will contact you to provide documentation, schedule an appointment, and complete a form.
3. Attend an online or phone appointment with a support worker for approximately 90 minutes.
4. A support worker will connect with your landlord to verify any information necessary.
5. After your loan application is reviewed and approved, cheques will be mailed directly to the landlord or company owed money.
6. You will be called monthly to provide case management support with additional referrals if needed.

We know this is a very stressful and difficult time for you. We will work as quickly as possible to urgently address your needs and hopefully prevent your housing loss. Our process depends on your unique circumstances — priority is given to preventing immediate evictions or disconnections.