More than 20,000 people across the Prairies call Avenue Living Communities home. We are proud and honoured to house thousands of the essential workers who are on the front lines during the pandemic — from hospital personnel to grocery store cashiers to delivery truck drivers, the list goes on.
We understand that this is an unprecedented time, causing challenges for many, if not all of us.
As a proactive measure and show of support to our residents, Avenue Living had already started the process of ensuring no renewals would face rent increases and had frozen all rent pricing for June renewals. Additionally, we have started the process of contacting residents with renewals effective April 1st, 2020 and May 1st, 2020 to notify them that any previously agreed to increases will be reduced down to prior rents.
“We have been pleased to be working with our residents to discuss their upcoming rent payments, and flexible rent payment options that we can offer. We have let those enquiring know that we will not be charging late fees in April, which has gone a long way to alleviate the concerns of those taking advantage of our weekly and semi-monthly payment options,” stated Louise Elsey, Chief Operating Officer.
“We are proud to be working with the government at this time, as they develop policy to help those in need at this time of crisis. Avenue Living has been proactive in offering payment plan options, a move that the Alberta government supported today in their announcement of protections that they are putting in place,” said Elsey.
Information on the latest government relief program, the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) is as follows: This benefit provides $2,000 a month for up to four months for workers who lose their income as a result of the COVID-19 Pandemic. The Federal government is setting up a special web portal, with the goal of being easier to apply than the traditional EI platform, and will be rolled out on April 6th. Here is a link for further information: https://bit.ly/2UnxETD
Our duty to you, our residents, is our highest priority. Please know that we are working around the clock to ensure your health and safety. Our mission, during good times and bad, is to provide reliable, safe and comfortable accommodations that you can call home.
