As an Indigenous Housing and Family advocate based in Regina, every day, I witness the struggles of vulnerable and low-income families attempting to secure suitable, safe and affordable housing. A particularly poignant case my team is currently managing involves a resilient young mother of two children. Despite having the ability to pay full damage deposit and six months' rent upfront, landlords continually refuse to rent to her. The properties within her price range are neither appropriate nor safe for her children.

Saskatchewan's social service program participants especially those on SIS and SAID face an uphill battle when it comes to finding affordable housing, with issues including landlords' refusal to rent to them, the high rates of rental units above shelter rates, and the demand for references from property managers rather than from private landlords. Some of these families are forced into choosing “less legal” rental units, which may expose them to a diverse range of health and safety risks.

This dire situation calls for immediate action - a rent cap in Saskatchewan. By implementing a rent cap, we can ensure that properties remain within an affordable range and prevent the exploitation of vulnerable peoples. Let us fight for the rights of these community members, and ensure they have a safe place to call home. Please sign this petition today and call upon our policy makers to impose a much-needed rent cap in Saskatchewan.