MYTH FOUR

All residents of permanent supportive housing buildings do pay rent, but their rate tends to be set according to their income level (typically 30%). When their income increases and they can pay more, their rate rises. Generally, people enjoy the autonomy that comes with being able to be self-sufficient, and if it’s appropriate, agency supports are provided to help a resident become self-sufficient over time.

However, sometimes their health issues prevent them from ever being able to pay market rent or have housing other than support. Helping to stabilize them reduces their use of more expensive public systems, such as hospitals, jails and emergency rooms.

Not all models rely entirely on public funds. Some of our partners have a small percentage of tenants who pay rent at a market rate. This means that there is an added source of funding for the agency, offsetting the subsidies provided to those who need them.