The District of Kitimat is strengthening its efforts to recruit and retain healthcare professionals by expanding its Healthcare Recruitment and Retention Incentive Program to include new housing allowances. The enhancement aims to address one of the most significant challenges facing incoming workers—access to stable, affordable housing.
Under the new option, eligible healthcare professionals may receive up to three months of rent or choose a single lump-sum payment to support the purchase of a home. The District says the additional support is designed to help new providers settle quickly and encourage them to establish long-term roots in Kitimat.
The housing allowance builds on the incentive program launched in August, which offers financial benefits to professionals accepting positions within the community. The District reports strong interest in the program, which applies retroactively to January 1, 2025.
Further initiatives are already in development, including retention bonuses, training supports, and welcome packages meant to ease the transition for new hires and enhance the overall experience of living and working in Kitimat.
The first year of program funding is supported by LNG Canada. Full program details, including guidelines and the Kitimat Healthcare Professionals Attraction and Retention Strategy, are available on the District of Kitimat’s website.
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