Temporary Housing Options:
If you are looking for a temporary accommodation while searching for long-term housing, you may want to consider staying in a hotel and taking advantage of discounts offered to VIU students. It is best to call ahead and inquire about rates for VIU students and availability to make sure they have what you need.
VIU Housing has negotiated special student rates at hotels in the Nanaimo area to support temporary housing options: services.viu.ca/housing/temporary-accommodation
Temporary Housing Options & Crisis Resources
On-Campus Crisis Resources:
VIU Financial Aid & Awards can help you manage your money while studying. They can also support you with finding financial assistance.
VIU Academic Advising, Accessibility Services, Counselling and Services for Aboriginal Students email links.
VIU Housing Services can help direct you to resources. Email housing@viu.ca or make an appointment for further support.
Other resources:
Tenant Resource & Advisory Centre (TRAC) - Get Help
BC Rent Bank: Regardless of where you live in the province, you can access a rent bank and its support services to help stabilize your rental housing during unanticipated short-term financial challenges.
Ask an Advocate offer advice and support for income assistance, disability assistance and tenancy and housing.
Nanaimo Youth Services Association - Housing Centre: The intent of Nanaimo’s Youth Housing Centre is to provide safe, supportive and/or affordable housing and personal development options to youth between the ages of 16 and 25 years old
Here2Talk - Here2Talk connects students with mental health support when they need it. Through this program, all students – domestic or international – currently registered in a B.C. post-secondary institution have access to free, confidential counselling and community referral services, conveniently available 24/7 via app, phone and web.
www.here2talk.ca
Canada-wide toll free, dial: 1-877-857-3397
Canada-wide direct, dial: 604-642-5212
Students’ Union Legal Assistance Plan: Your Students’ Union Health & Dental Plan offers timely, cost-effective access to experienced lawyers to guide you through most major types of law, including for landlords & tenants.
Call toll-free 1-877-333-3884 available 24/7