A senior couple in Calgary, Dave and Sherry Hilderman, are facing the possibility of eviction from their subsidized two-bedroom apartment after refusing to give up their cat, Baby Girl, which they claim is an emotional support animal. Sherry was advised by a doctor to get the cat during the pandemic to help cope with severe depression. Now, the family has until the middle of June to find a new place to live. The eviction letter cited breaches in the lease, including violating the building’s pet policy and making unauthorized alterations. Silvera for Seniors, the organization managing the building, offered the couple options in other pet-friendly buildings but the costs are almost double or triple what they are currently paying, causing financial strain for the couple who live paycheck to paycheck.
Dave expressed the difficulty of the situation, stating that they do not have the financial capacity to handle an increase in rent. This has left them in a tough position, wondering if they will have to cut back on medication or food in order to afford housing that allows them to keep Baby Girl. Sherry shared her feelings of fear and helplessness, expressing how difficult the situation has been for her. Shelters in Calgary are also facing challenges with occupancy, with more seniors seeking shelter. The Mustard Seed, a non-profit organization, is exploring new models of care to help provide housing for seniors with chronic conditions who should be safely housed in a long-term sustainable manner, whether in supportive housing or market housing.
The Hildermans’ situation highlights the struggles that many seniors face in finding affordable and suitable housing, especially when dealing with issues related to mental health and pets. The emotional support that pets can provide is essential for many individuals, especially during challenging times like the pandemic. Finding a balance between housing policies and the well-being of residents, including their emotional support animals, is crucial to ensuring the overall quality of life for seniors. Organizations like Silvera for Seniors face the challenge of balancing the needs of residents with their policies and regulations, especially when it comes to pets in subsidized housing.
The story of Dave and Sherry resonates with many seniors who are living on a fixed income and may not have the financial resources to afford sudden increases in rent or housing costs. The dilemma of choosing between essential expenses like medication and food or keeping a beloved pet as an emotional support companion is a difficult one that many seniors face. The increasing number of seniors seeking shelter also sheds light on the larger issue of affordable housing and support services for vulnerable populations. Finding sustainable solutions that address the housing needs of seniors with chronic conditions is crucial in building a more inclusive and supportive community for aging populations.
The eviction of Dave and Sherry Hilderman serves as a reminder of the systemic challenges that seniors face in accessing affordable and suitable housing in Calgary and beyond. The case highlights the need for more flexible and compassionate housing policies that account for the diverse needs of residents, including emotional support animals. As the population ages, the demand for senior-friendly housing options will continue to grow, necessitating a proactive approach to addressing the housing crisis faced by many older adults. Collaborative efforts between government, non-profit organizations, and housing providers are essential in finding long-term solutions to ensure that seniors like the Hildermans can age in place with dignity and security, alongside their beloved pets.
