What is the Canada-Nova Scotia Targeted Housing Benefit?

It is a rent supplement paid directly to you if your rent exceeds 30% of your income and your household income is below approximately $35,000. Apply by email to housing@novascotia.ca with proof of income, your lease, and rent receipts.

Where can I find emergency shelter in Nova Scotia?

Call 211 (available 24/7) to find the nearest emergency shelter. In Halifax: Adsum (902-423-4443) for women/children/gender-diverse people, Metro Turning Point (902-420-3282) for men, Salvation Army Centre of Hope (902-422-2363) for anyone.

Housing Help in Nova Scotia: Rent Supplements, Public Housing & Emergency Shelter

Q: How do I apply for public housing in Nova Scotia?

Apply online through the Nova Scotia Provincial Housing Agency (NSPHA) at nspha.ca. You will need government-issued photo ID, proof of income, and proof of your current address. Rent is set based on your household income.

Finding Housing Help in Nova Scotia

If you are struggling with housing costs, facing eviction, or have nowhere to sleep tonight, there are real programs that can help. Nova Scotia has provincial and federal housing supports that many people don't know about.

If You Need Shelter Tonight

Call 211 (available 24/7) to find the nearest emergency shelter. In Halifax, key shelters include:

Adsum for Women & Children — 902-423-4443 (women, children, gender-diverse people, no ID required)
Metro Turning Point — 902-420-3282 (men)
Salvation Army Centre of Hope — 902-422-2363 (individuals and families)
Phoenix Youth Programs — 902-420-0669 (youth ages 16–24)

Outside Halifax, shelters exist in Truro (Haven House), Cape Breton, and other communities. Call 211 to find one near you.

Rent Supplements

Canada-Nova Scotia Targeted Housing Benefit helps renters whose rent exceeds 30% of their income. If your household income is under approximately $35,000 and you are paying too much of it on rent, you may qualify for a direct payment to help. Apply by email to housing@novascotia.ca or call the Department of Municipal Affairs and Housing. You will need: Government-issued photo ID, proof of income (Notice of Assessment), your current lease, and recent rent receipts.

Public Housing

Nova Scotia Public Housing provides government-owned rental units at reduced rent based on your income. Apply through the Nova Scotia Provincial Housing Agency (NSPHA) at nspha.ca. Wait times vary by region — urban areas can be months to years.

Housing for Survivors of Gender-Based Violence

The Survivors of Gender-Based Violence Housing Benefit can cover up to 100% of your rent or mortgage if you are fleeing violence. This is one of the most generous housing benefits in the province. Apply by contacting housing@novascotia.ca. You do not need to have left the abusive situation already — you can apply while planning to leave.

Your Rights as a Tenant

If your landlord is trying to evict you, raise your rent beyond the cap, or shut off utilities, contact the Residential Tenancies Program at 1-800-670-4357. Landlords cannot lock you out or shut off your heat — that is illegal in Nova Scotia. For free legal representation in tenancy disputes, contact Dalhousie Legal Aid Service at 902-423-8105.

Getting Started

Not sure which programs you qualify for? Use Aidvocate's free housing quiz — answer a few questions and get a personalized list of programs you may be eligible for, with instructions on how to apply.