South Shore forced to live in a family tent priced from the N.S. rental market

N.S. Lunenberg's campground is the only temporary housing found by Jessica Smith and her family after months of searching.

"We had a short rental from October to June 1st, so we were looking for a rental from October 2021 to the present," says Smith.

Smith is a lifetime resident of the South Shore and says she is priced from the rental market even though she has a full-time job as her ongoing care assistant.

"Rents have risen significantly. If anything is available, it's short-term, or is currently experiencing a lot of Airbnb, or big enough for large families. There's just no place for it, "she said.

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Smith knows that there are many other people in similar positions, so he decides to publicly share the struggles his family is facing. Did.

"The government and everyone need to be aware of what's really going on. They Should try to prepare something for families who don't have a home and aren't eligible to buy one. They need to listen to us, "she said.

Communitygather behind the family to find them We have support and extensive efforts. Suitable housing.

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"A stranger ... has contacted me and she is donating a stay to Airbnbs Many people She also advertises small businesses, so every day she tries to get small businesses to donate something, and then they're going to auction it. " Said.

Smith says that the kindness of strangers and the strong bonds shared by her family have helped her overcome this difficult time.

Lunenberg Mayor Matt Lisser said the housing crisis is a widespread problem and around the world. The prefecture that states that it is influencing the local government.

He explained that the need for housing was "demonstrable," and the Lunenberg Town Council issued regulations and land use to encourage the construction of more inventories. It states that it has made changes.

"Allowed more density for where people can build. Allowed for better development. That is, people only need permission and will not be heard. "He said.

Risser agrees that short-term rentals are putting pressure on existing housing stock , States to be cautious about taking responsibility. Any one factor.

"We need to be careful not to scapegoat certain factors. The biggest aspect is that demand exceeds supply," he said.

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