Anyone in Vancouver, Canada, having issues?

[RedString]

I am completely bummed out and stressed out right now. We're living in OH's parents' basement, and they're moving in two weeks. OH hasn't been able to find a job since losing one back in January (and sometimes I feel like he's not even trying, ) and no one will hire me because i'm supposed to have a baby in a month. Not that I want to work anyway, when I'm having a baby in a month, but I've been looking since I lost my job in February. I had a short stint at an accounting firm for a while, but tax season's over, and so is that job.

I can't get income assistance because I'm on EI, and get $1020 a month. But if you live in Vancouver, you know that that's not enough to pay the rent, let alone buy food afterward. I"m on the verge of being homeless, and I don't know what to do. But at least I'll be homeless with money. =\

And the government website is absolutely useless and just leads you around in circles. It tells you about all these wonderful programs they have, but doesn't tell you how to apply for them, or where you can go. And the ones that it does tell you how to apply, you have to already have a child to be eligible to even apply! I don't want to be homeless. I feel like such a failure, bringing a child into this situation. what kind of mother am i?

 

[Pink_Sparkle]

hugs to you, im sorry I cant offer any advice as im not sure how things like that work over your side of the water.

Is there not like a citizens advice beaurue where you could go and find out your options?
Do you have any family members or friends who could help out with accomodation? xxx

 

[Sarahkka]

Look up your closest Service Canada centre, go there in person and don't leave until they have helped you get something sorted out. Unfortunately, sometimes you have to kick and scream to avoid slipping through the cracks in the system. The cost of living in Vancouver is insane. You are certainly not the only one in this boat. Good luck with everything!

 

[Sweetie]

I'm guessing that OH isn't eligable for ei? Sorry I'm probably asking the obvious, or missed it somewhere but I want to make sure I'm looking in the right places to help you.

 

[RedString]

@sweetie: no, OH isn't eligible for EI, even though he quit his job because his boss skipped three of his paychecks. stupid EI.

But, sort of a happy update; I managed to get a room at the YWCA hotel in downtown Vancouver. so for July at least, we have a home. We may end up going back to my Mum's place or something afterward, but here's to hoping we get subsidized housing, or OH get's the job at the Keg this friday, so that we don't have to.

Thank you so much for the support, and listening to me whine. The stress and tension has been killing me.

 

[Sarahkka]

@sweetie: no, OH isn't eligible for EI, even though he quit his job because his boss skipped three of his paychecks. stupid EI.

But, sort of a happy update; I managed to get a room at the YWCA hotel in downtown Vancouver. so for July at least, we have a home. We may end up going back to my Mum's place or something afterward, but here's to hoping we get subsidized housing, or OH get's the job at the Keg this friday, so that we don't have to.

Thank you so much for the support, and listening to me whine. The stress and tension has been killing me.

Redstring, what great great news!!!
I am so relieved for you!
I've got my fingers crossed for your fellow getting the job!