The petition of the residents of British Columbia, respectfully petition the Honourable House (the B.C. NDP govt.) to take urgent and immediate action to address the inadequate shelter allowance currently provided to persons receiving disability assistance. 

People with disabilities often face barriers to employment along with higher costs associated with health care and housing.                 

 The cost of housing across British Columbia continues to rise significantly, and  the current maximum shelter allowance provided to persons with disabilities under the B.C. provincial income assistance program has not kept pace with the  market rental rates.

The average cost of a one bedroom apartment in B.C. is $2082.00 a month, while the B.C. government gives disabled people $500.00 a month to find somewhere to rent.

 Only 25 percent of pwd recipients have access to low income housing.

 50 percent of the homeless in B.C. are disabled people that can't afford a home on their poverty fixed disability support of $1483.00 a month, which $500.00 of the $1483.00 is the shelter portion.

Individuals living with disabilities are disproportionately affected by housing insecurity and are at greater risk of homelessness and poverty, which causes them to live in unsafe conditions.

   We request that the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia increase the rental cap for Persons With Disabilities assistance so that it is appropriate and reflects the current 2025 rental market rates. This is a policy change that involves funding, and it's a valid public concern. Such an increase would promote dignity, stability, and improved quality of life for thousands of British Columbians living with disabilities.