Ready to Rent BC is a unique program that supports people in becoming successful tenants.
There is a new course beginning May 1 in Campbell River.
The twelve-hour course teaches housing-related knowledge and skill development, including topics such as tenant rights and responsibilities, fire and other health and safety issues, money management, communication skills and conflict management. The course is normally taught in two-hour segments once a week over six weeks. Staff also “walk with” the participants to help them to find their own solutions to their own problems.
On completion of the course, individuals will have a portfolio for prospective landlords including references, credit checks and their Graduation Certificate.
Some landlords accept a Ready to Rent BC Graduation Certificate in lieu of a reference and, while many graduates apply for subsidized housing, others prefer to find or stay in their current market housing but with perhaps a different appreciation given their new skills and knowledge.
Since the program began in 2009, there have been nearly 750 graduates in the Victoria area, Duncan, and Campbell River. Their testimonials speak volumes. One woman said that being in stable housing now is finally giving her the chance to plan her life, while another said, “the course is teaching (my husband and I) what we need to know so there won’t be any surprises.”
A third individual is now in subsidized housing and thrilled to have his son be able to live with him after his son was taken from his partner following a break-up and placed in care.
Anything is possible with stable housing. Success starts here.
The course starts May 1 and runs from 12-3 p.m. at the Family Services office (487 10th Avenue).
For more information, call Paul at 250-914-0272 or Susan at 250-287-7384.This course is brought to you by Vancouver Island North Women’s Resource Society and Campbell River and North Island Transition Society.
Funding is through Ready to Rent; there will be a small cost for future courses.