Saskatchewan seniors can rest easy, thanks to a new program from the Saskatchewan government that provides low income seniors and seniors who have been victims of crime with a variety of home safety programs for free.
The program, called the Seniors Home Security Program, was piloted in Prince Albert last year. After success there, it is now open to any Saskatchewan senior, whether urban, rural or on a reserve. Seniors are also welcome to take advantage of the program regardless of whether they own their own houses or live in rental properties.
To be eligible, seniors must be over 65 and either low income or previous victims of break ins or home invasions. The program defines "low income" according to the provincial government's housing income levels, which currently define it as under $35,000.
Seniors living in rental properties will also have to ensure they have their landlord's permission to install the safety features as well. Eligible seniors will receive deadbolts, door viewers, smoke alarms (with batteries) and carbon monoxide alarms. The program's organizers have gone to lengths to ensure seniors are not re-victimized, for example by making all potential contractors undergo criminal record checks.
If seniors qualify, they can receive their home security equipment in as little as a few weeks. Typically though, installation will occur within three to four weeks. The program will last for four years, and seniors will continue to be eligible even if they move, provided the program is still being offered.
For more information about the program, call toll free at 1-855-524-6034, send an email to [email protected], go to www.seniorsecurity.gov.sk.ca. Inquiries can also be made by sending letters to the Seniors Home Security Program; 100, 1855 Victoria Av., Regina, Sask., S4P 3T2.
