The District of Kitimat is taking another step to strengthen local healthcare by introducing a housing allowance to its Healthcare Recruitment and Retention Incentive program, providing new and current professionals with additional support to live and stay in the community.
The new allowance gives eligible healthcare professionals the option to receive up to three months of rent or a single lump-sum payment to support the purchase of a home. The District says this added support is meant to help healthcare workers access stable housing and encourage them to buy homes and establish roots in the community.
This new benefit builds on the program first launched in August, which offers financial incentives for professionals who accept healthcare positions in the community. So far, the District reports strong engagement with the initiative, which is retroactive to January 1, 2025, allowing qualifying workers hired earlier in the year to benefit as well.
Additional initiatives are currently in development, including retention and training incentives and welcome packages, all aimed at making Kitimat a more attractive destination for healthcare professionals.
The first year of funding for the program is being provided by LNG Canada.
