Re: More affordable homes for Langford families (Gazette, March 3)
I want to start by saying I don’t want to take anything away from families. I understand raising children is very difficult; emotionally, physically and financially.
That said, I get that raising children is expensive. I also know that’s why the government issues the Canada child tax benefit every month.
An average of at least $123 per month, per child, depending on the child’s age, is issued to parents to help offset costs of raising children (according to the Canadian Revenue Agency’s website).
I understand this is not enough to completely compensate parents, but it helps.
Also, the term “family” somewhat indicates two parents. Which generally means two incomes as well.
I work almost full time. I get roughly 32 to 38 hours per week at my job, where I am paid approximately $2 an hour over minimum wage.
I can’t afford my own place. I have to rent a room or share a suite.
I don’t have a ton of extra bills to weigh me down and yet I cannot afford to live on my own.
I think it’s great that affordable housing for families is a thing, but what about those of us who would like to not depend on others to live our own lives, by ourselves?
I’d love to have my own place, not relying on sharing expenses with someone. I feel like because I have chosen to not have children, I’m not worthy of affordable housing and true independence.
This article brings one main question to mind for me. Where’s the affordable housing for single, working people?
Relying on someone else to make sure one has a roof over their head and shelter is not a great feeling. Unfortunately, it’s one that most single people in this area are being forced to get accustomed to.
Nya Wade
Langford