Nanaimo Region Rent Bank

In January 2021, the City worked in partnership with the John Howard Society, now known as Connective Society, and BC Rent Bank (BCRB) to establish Nanaimo’s first rent bank.  Between January 2021 and November 2024, the City has contributed $202,000 to the Nanaimo Region Rent Bank.  In November 2024, the City dedicated an additional $150,000 to support rent bank services for 2025.   

 A rent bank is an eviction prevention and housing stability service that provides interest free loans to low-to-moderate income renter households facing eviction or in need of assistance to pay essential utilities because of a short-term financial crisis. In addition to financial services, rent banks provide valuable connections to government benefits, debt consolidation, financial literacy, employment resources, and other community-based services that are focused on supporting a renter beyond their immediate crisis.

 Connective Society operates the Nanaimo Region Rent Bank (NRRB) and serves residents living in the City of Nanaimo and greater Nanaimo Regional District. Financial assistance is provided to residents by providing an interest free loan and a flexible plan for payback.  Often the payback is planned over a 24 to 36-month period. The maximum amount loaned is $500 for utilities, $2,000 for rent for single-family households and $3,500 for family households.