V.I.N.E — Veterans Information & Navigation Ease
VINE program supports Veterans who are experiencing homelessness or are at risk of losing their housing.
We provide individualized housing support to help Veterans navigate rent subsidies and housing options, connect with community resources, reduce barriers, and build long-term housing stability based on their unique needs and circumstances.
Who is the program for?
VINE Program is available to eligible former members of the:
- Canadian Armed Forces, including Regular Force and Reserve members
- Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)
The program is intended for Veterans who are:
- Currently experiencing homelessness
- At imminent risk of becoming homeless
- In need of support to obtain or maintain safe and stable housing
VINE provides support to Veterans in Nanaimo and the Oceanside area, including communities such as Parksville and Qualicum Beach.
Eligibility is reviewed during the intake process, and our team can help you understand what information and documentation may be required.
How Can We Help?
- Housing Support
VINE works with Veterans to identify housing options that are appropriate for their circumstances and preferences.
Support may include:
· Exploring housing options and identifying individual housing needs
· We offer support with navigating local housing resources and submitting applications for housing and waitlists.
· Re-housing support when a change in housing is needed
When appropriate, we will also work with community housing providers and other organizations to help identify suitable housing solutions.
1.2 Housing Stability & Eviction Prevention
Our Support does not end once housing is found. VINE works with Veterans to maintain their tenancy and liaises with community partners and other service providers to help connect them with the appropriate resources.
This may include:
· Working with Veterans and landlords to address tenancy concerns
· Landlord liaison and problem-solving
· Budgeting and financial guidance
· Support accessing emergency resources when unexpected circumstances affect housing stability
1.3 Basic Needs & Emergency Support
Meeting basic needs can be an important first step when someone is experiencing homelessness or is at immediate risk of losing their housing. VINE will work with the Veteran to identify available resources and connect them with appropriate community services.
· Food and emergency food resources
· Clothing and footwear
· Other essential supports that may help address an immediate housing crisis
2. Rent Subsidies
Helping make housing more affordable
VINE provides short-term (up to 6 months) rent subsidies to eligible Veterans for financial assistance toward their housing costs.
- Bridges the gap between current income and market rental rates.
- Assists Veterans in quickly securing private market units.
- Preserve tenancy and prevent eviction
- Offers stability while Veterans secure employment, disability benefits, or long-term financial support.
Please note: Receiving a rent subsidy is subject to program eligibility requirements and available funding. Our team will review your individual circumstances with you during the intake process.
How does the program work?
Here’s our process in order to assist you:
1. Connect with us
Veterans can self-refer or be referred by family, service providers, or community partners.2. Complete an intake
We assess your housing needs and situation to identify appropriate housing options and supports3. Connect to housing & supports
We assist with housing searches, applications, subsidies, landlords, and community resources.4. Support housing stability
Once housed, we provide ongoing support and resources to help you maintain housing.Culturally Appropriate Support
We recognize the importance of culturally appropriate and community-based supports for Indigenous Veterans. We are committed to building connections with Indigenous organizations, liaisons, and community partners to help ensure Indigenous Veterans can access housing and supports that respect their culture, identity, and individual needs.
Need support?
If you are a Veteran experiencing homelessness, worried about losing your housing, or unsure where to turn, we encourage you to reach out.
You do not have to navigate the housing system alone.
Refer a Veteran
Our VINE team can talk with you about your situation, explain the program, and help determine what supports may be available.
