All Jamati Libraries now have an Elders’ Resource Corner. This Corner contains several brochures and pamphlets relating to various types of Government resources available in your local community, including accessing affordable housing and Government grants for house renovations. There are also several brochures available on various health related issues as well as BC Seniors’ Guide which has a wealth of information. Resource Members:
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Medical Services Plan (MSP) Premium Assistance and Other Subsidies for Seniors
Seniors may be eligible for financial assistance for their monthly Medical Services Plan (MSP) premiums. Premiums have increased as of January 1, 2016 by approximately four per cent for those earning over $30,000.
The Regular Premium Assistance program has five levels for individuals or families earning less than $30,000. Regular Premium Assistance will depend on individual or family net income for the previous tax year. It will also depend on deductions for age, family size, disability and any reported Universal Child Care Benefit and Registered Disability Savings Plan income. Regular Premium Assistance may also be provided for up to six years before the date of the application if eligible.
Seniors should check their eligibility if they have not already done so. To learn more about Regular and Temporary Premium Assistance, visit www2.gov.bc.ca or call 1-800-663-7100.
BC seniors may also be eligible for the following subsidies:
- Fair PharmaCare subsidizes costs for eligible drugs: 1-800-663-7100
- Shelter Aid for Elderly Renters (SAFER) provides monthly payments to subsidize rents for low and moderate income seniors: 1-800-257-7756
- Home Adaptations for Independence (HAFI) provides grants to low-income seniors to modify their homes: 1-800-257-7756
- Property Tax Deferment Program allows seniors to defer paying property taxes: 1-888-355-2700
IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS & WEB LINKS
- Visitation Line: 604-438-4010 ext. 830
- Canada Pension Plan
- Retirement Pension, Disability Benefits, Death Benefit, Children's Benefits, Survivor's Pension: 1-800-277-9914
- HandyDart (everyday): 604-575-6600
- HealthLink BC (24/7): 811 or www.healthlinkbc.ca
- Seniors Health Care Support: 1-877-952-3181
- Seniors Distress Line (24/7): 604-872-1234 or www.crisiscentre.bc.ca
- Community and Govt. Services (24/7): 211 or www.bc211.ca