Helping Families Stay Housed During the Back-to-School Season

As children across B.C. return to school this month, many families are facing increased expenses alongside the ongoing challenges of a high cost of living. Add in an unexpected financial setback that makes it difficult to pay rent, and the consequences can be far-reaching.  

Housing instability can disrupt a child’s education, social connections, and sense of belonging in their community. Rent banks help prevent that by providing financial assistance to households experiencing a one-time crisis, helping families avoid eviction and remain in their homes, close to their schools and support networks. Every year, rent banks support thousands of households across B.C., providing stability when it’s needed most. 

As one renter shared: 

“Rent Bank helped me get back on my feet after a traumatic year. I’m very thankful to have their services in BC. Without them I could have potentially become homeless with my 7 year old son. I am very thankful for them.” 

Another parent reflected how timely support helped them through a difficult family situation: 

“The Rent Bank was there for me during a complicated family emergency and I had nowhere to turn for help. Dealing with financial challenges as a single parent can cause a lot of shame and all the staff were so empathetic but also action and solution focused on helping me feel less hopeless about my financial situation. I am forever grateful to the entire team thank you!” 

The experiences of parents who access rent banks highlight how important it is to have somewhere to turn when your housing is at risk. Beyond financial assistance, rent banks offer reassurance and practical guidance when families are under pressure and unsure where to turn. 

As one renter explained: 

“The Rent Bank is truly a blessing for families facing eviction due to financial hardship. Life can change unexpectedly, and not all challenges can be planned for. Having a resource like the Rent Bank to help bridge that financial gap provides more than assistance – it offers relief, stability, hope, and a chance to remain safely housed while overcoming difficult times. Support like this can make a lasting difference.” 

Help keep families housed 

Today, BC Rent Bank is advocating for sustainable, long-term funding to ensure this critical eviction prevention service remains available to the families who depend on it. Provincial funding for BC Rent Bank has not been confirmed beyond March 2027, putting the program and the thousands of renters it supports at risk. 

If you believe families should be able to stay safely housed, connected to their schools, and rooted in their communities, please consider making a donation to support the continuation of BC Rent Bank. 

With your support, families facing an unexpected setback can find relief in a difficult moment, stability when housing is at risk, and hope for what comes next.