Rental Assistance That Works: RAP and SAFER Programs

About this episode

This episode discusses the SAFER and RAP programs that provide rental assistance to seniors and low-income families in British Columbia.

*This episode was filmed during Minister Kahlon’s tenure as Minister of Housing. In this episode of Let’s Talk Housing, we take a closer look at two programs that are helping British Columbians stay housed—the Shelter Aid for Elderly Renters (SAFER) and the Rental Assistance Program (RAP). These impactful supports provide monthly rent subsidies to seniors and low-income families, easing financial pressure and creating more room for stability, health, and dignity. We’ll explore how these programs work, who they’re designed for, and why they matter, especially in today’s housing landscape. We’ll also highlight the recent changes to the programs that allow more people to qualify for these benefits, as well as increased subsidies to keep up with inflation. At a time when affordability remains a major concern, this episode highlights how targeted government support can create meaningful, measurable change—helping people not just stay afloat but move forward. Guests: · Ravi Kahlon, Former Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs, British Columbia · Alison Silgardo, CEO, Seniors Services Society of B.C. About: To learn more about BC Housing’s RAP and SAFER programs, visit: Shelter Aid…

People in this episode

Guests: Ravi Kahlon, Alison Silgardo

Topics covered

• rental assistance
• housing programs
• financial support
• seniors
• low-income families
• affordability
• government support

Keywords

• SAFER
• RAP
• rental assistance
• British Columbia
• financial support
• housing stability
• government programs
• affordability
• seniors
• low-income families

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: BC Housing, Seniors Services Society of B.C.

More episodes of Let's Talk Housing: A Podcast by BC Housing

• Meeting BC’s new Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs · January 22, 2026 · 21 min
• Building Homes Faster: How DASH Is Changing the Way We Build in B.C. · January 8, 2026 · 34 min
• Supporting Tenants: the Power of Support Programs and Services · November 27, 2025 · 31 min
• Indigenous Housing that Supports Families in Victoria · October 30, 2025 · 40 min
• Small Town, Big Impact: Filling the Seniors Housing Gap in Fort St. James · July 22, 2025 · 36 min
• Opening Doors to Accessibility · July 8, 2025 · 35 min