Funding for rental benefit increased by $21 million, supporting additional 2,500 households

Release

Housing New Brunswick, Office of the Premier

May 20, 2025

SAINT JOHN (GNB) – The government has increased funding for the direct-to-tenant rental benefit by more than $21 million to help make housing more affordable and accessible for an additional 2,500 households per year.

Since it was created in January 2024, the benefit has assisted more than 6,100 households with income-based rent subsidies to help individuals and families stay in their homes.

“New Brunswickers need access to an affordable and safe place to call home in their communities,” said David Hickey, minister responsible for the New Brunswick Housing Corporation. “The direct-to-tenant rental benefit is one of the most effective affordability supports to help low-income renters, which is why, in the 2025-26 budget, we’re investing $21 million.”

The benefit is provided directly to the household, not the housing unit or landlord, which means it stays with that person or family in the event of a move.

This is one of several affordable housing programs and rental supplements offered by the corporation and is a key component of the government’s efforts to improve access to suitable housing.

“We’re focused on providing New Brunswickers with affordability relief and safe, affordable housing,” said Premier Susan Holt. “We know New Brunswickers are struggling to keep up with the soaring costs of essentials like groceries, energy and housing.”

More information on the program and its eligibility requirements is available by calling 211.

“We work with people and community non-profits every day, and we know that finding and securing stable housing is a major concern for many New Brunswickers,” said Randy Hatfield, executive director of the Human Development Council in Saint John. “This program is helping to keep people housed, and that will relieve some of the strain on emergency housing services.”

The direct-to-tenant rental benefit is one component of a joint investment by the federal and provincial governments under the 2018-2028 CMHC-New Brunswick Bilateral Agreement, which is part of the National Housing Strategy.

 

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