If you are employed, first look into your extended health benefits plan through your employer, or through private insurance coverage, for support with accommodation during your cancer treatment. Ministry of Employment and Income Assistance, Department of Veteran Affairs and Indian and Northern Affairs Canada clients should contact their caseworker for help.

If you have limited finances and are not eligble for assistance with the above, you may apply to the Canadian Cancer Society, Financial Support Program. You can apply online at www.cancer.ca/bc or call the Cancer Information Service at 1-888-939-3333.

While Receiving Treatment

Cancer Lodges run by the Canadian Cancer Society provide accommodation at a modest rate, for out of town patients and their families who need to be close to a Cancer Centre for treatment or tests. A 24-hour nurse supervisor is available, and meals are included in the cost. You can contact the Lodges directly for more information and to register.

For more information about other accomodations close to your local cancer centre, call Patient & Family Counselling Services.

Other Housing Assistance

Shelter Aid for Elderly Renters (SAFER) for seniors: Individuals who rent, have resided in BC for 1 year, aged 60+ years, pay 30% of their income in rent, may be eligible for a subsidy. Contact the BC Housing Management Commission:

• Head Office (Burnaby): 1.800.257.7756
• Vancouver: 604.433.2218

Home Owner Grant: If you are a property owner and are physically disabled or have a handicapped relative residing permanently with you, you may be eligible for a Provincial Home Owner Grant. Contact your municipal hall.

Residential Rehabilitation Assistance Program: The RRAP program through the federal government provides financial help for individuals whose home or apartment needs modifications to improve accessibility to the disabled. Contact Canada Mortgage and Housing:

• Toll free: 1.800.639-3938
• Victoria: 250.388.6422
• Vancouver: 604.731.5733

Land Tax Deferment Program: People with disabilities as defined by the Disability Benefits Program Act (or 60+ or who are widowed spouses) may be allowed to defer the payment of their property taxes until their home is sold. A preferential interest rate applies to the deferred taxes. Call Enquiry BC for further information:

• Vancouver: 604.660.2421
• Victoria: 250.387.0555
• Outside Phone: 1.800.663.7867

Low Cost Rental Housing: Subsidized housing may be available for families, individuals with disabilities, and senior citizens. Check in your community to see what is available. For example, BC Housing, Capital Region Housing Corporation, societies and churches may be sources of housing contacts. There may be waiting lists.