Dear Ms. Bollu,

I have stories of renting, both good and bad. Unfortunately, the current reality of housing costs has forced me to take extreme measures. Unable to afford a stable place to live, I am moving into a motorhome to survive.

Battling Disability and Housing Challenges

I have an unpredictable disability (seizures) and, in the current climate, cannot find reasonable work. Currently, I pay $1,025 for a room in a two-bedroom unit, but my roommate is leaving, and the farm I live on is being sold. This means I face a 90-day eviction notice from that date.

The journey has not been easy. I have lived under constant vigilance due to threats of violence and financial struggles.

Rebuilding After Adversity

Since my ex-spouse was removed from my life in 2014, I’ve worked tirelessly to rebuild. Despite the damage to my personal credit when he misused my Power of Attorney, I improved my credit score from 353 to close to 700 (currently 668 due to purchasing the motorhome).

I am not a drug addict, alcoholic, nor am I loud or offensive. Yet, I find myself without support, isolated in society. Even my son moved out at 17, choosing to live with his best friend’s family.

Pursuing Education Against All Odds

Amid these challenges, I have been pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Microbiology, with a minor in Ecology. I first graduated high school in 1997, earning Arts and Humanities credits on time despite the difficulties I faced.

Years later, I returned to high school to earn the math and science credits necessary for university enrollment. This journey included battling the federal government for access to financial aid, as I did not initially qualify for OSAP due to my disability. Finally, I was granted tuition-only grants based on my disability.

In January 2022, I began studying at the University of Guelph, Ontario. I am now almost halfway through my degree, maintaining a 79% average. However, my performance could be even better if not for the unrelenting stress of housing insecurity, inadequate nutrition, and the constant need to work to cover basic living costs.

A History of Housing Instability

The following timeline illustrates the housing challenges I have faced:

• 2014: Removed my ex-spouse and discovered the financial chaos he left behind. I could not afford housing on my own.
• 2017: Moved to Dundas due to financial struggles while attending school.
• 2018: Left due to a bedbug infestation that caused a severe allergic reaction in my son.
• 2019: Lived in the basement of a hoarder’s home, sharing space with their belongings. Left due to mental health concerns.
• 2020: Rented from a landlord who struggled with substance abuse. Left for safety reasons.
• 2021: Endured dangerous living conditions in a Kitchener building plagued by drug activity and violence.
• 2024 (Present): Face eviction as the farm I currently reside on is being sold.

The Emotional Toll

The compounding pressures of these experiences have left me feeling cornered. Recently, I even began preparing a MAiD (Medical Assistance in Dying) application, recognizing how unfair it is to lack choices despite doing everything right. I have not scammed the system, yet I continue to pay the price for circumstances beyond my control.

The Landlord's Perspective

I understand the landlord's point of view, but I have done nothing wrong and yet face punishment at every turn. Housing instability, coupled with a lack of societal support, has left me struggling to find a place in a world that seems to have no room for people like me.

Closing

Thank you for taking the time to read my story.

Sincerely,

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A Citizen & A Renter Advocate

‍Despite facing significant challenges, including housing instability, a debilitating medical condition, and financial hardships, this author has persevered with resilience and hope. Their journey reflects a commitment to education and rebuilding a stable, independent life.

They have overcome numerous obstacles, including rebuilding their credit and advocating for access to education grants for students with disabilities. With a strong academic performance and unwavering dedication, they aim to contribute meaningfully to the scientific community. this author's story is one of strength, courage, and determination in the face of adversity.

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