TORONTO ANNOUNCES MEASURES TO HELP LOW-INCOME RENTERS
Low-income renters in the city’s public housing system may soon catch a break.
On Tuesday, Toronto mayor John Tory announced plans by the Toronto Community Housing Corp. (TCHC) to work with renters to ensure they’ll be able to keep their homes during the coronavirus outbreak.
“These are extraordinary times and we know there are some people who need extraordinary help,” said Tory in a statement.
“Toronto Community Housing is showing leadership and working with tenants who have suddenly lost their jobs to make sure they can stay in their homes.”
Beginning last week, Employment Insurance claims reached unprecedented levels as the coronavirus forced companies to close — over 1 million so far according to media reports.
Worldwide job losses could top 25 million, according to forecasts by the International Labour Organization.
Rent-geared-to-income renters, which according to the city amounts to about 90% of those living in TCHC housing, will have their rent calculated based on job loss or layoff, Tory said, with payments adjusted or deferred on a case-by-case basis.
For others, rent deferment options may be available.
Tory issued a plea to landlords across the city to be flexible with renters unable to make rent, saying he expects landlords to let renters know about programs available to help them.
Story by: Toronto Sun
