Imagine coming home only to find yourself locked out. That was the situation facing Asim* almost two years ago. The 73-year-old had just been meeting with Seniors Services Society because he knew he needed to find a new place to live. He had lived with his older brother for many years but when the brother’s health deteriorated and his daughter took control of his assets, she served Asim with a notice to vacate immediately. This was not a legal eviction process.

With the locks to the house changed, Asim was unable to retrieve his personal belongings. Distressed and in tears, he reached back to SSSBC. We advised Asim to contact the police and request assistance in accessing his belongings. Upon attending the situation, the RCMP warned family members that this was an illegal eviction and instructed them either to allow Asim to stay while working on a legal eviction process or paying for a motel room for him. The family complied and agreed to pay the motel costs until Asim found a new home.

An SSSBC outreach worker assisted Asim. After three months of searching, he received two offers for low-rental subsidized housing. He chose the option that best suited his needs. SSSBC covered his moving costs and assisted with the damage deposit, while Asim was able to purchase basic household items. He receives a monthly rent subsidy and was assessed for Better at Home services. He now receives housekeeping support.

Today, Asim is thriving in his new home. He is grateful for the assistance he received from SSSBC and is paying it forward by connecting other seniors to SSSBC for assistance on housing-related matters.

* Name has been changed.