Thousands more can get home security rebate, as province quadruples funding for program

The province is bolstering its home security rebate program by allocating an additional $1.5 million in funding, which the premier says will allow thousands more Manitobansto access rebates for the purchase of security systems.

Extended funding for the home security rebate program was announced at a news conference Thursday.The program, a promise made by the NDP during last year's election campaign, was launched earlier this summer. The province had initially allocated $500,000 worth of rebates to operate it, but that cap was reached in a matter of days, with over 7,500 applications for rebates to date.

"Every one of those applications represents a Manitoban who's taking the step of keeping their own personal property safe, but also keeping their community safe," Manitoba's Justice Minister Matt Wiebe said.

High demand for the rebate program, operating in a first-come-first-serve fashion, pushed the province to increase the initial cap to $2 million, four times the funding initially designated.

The program offers homeowners, renters and small business owners a $300 rebate forsecurity equipment, like cameras and lights, purchased after Sept. 1, 2023. The premier said those who have applied for the rebate to date will receive a direct deposit in the next few days, while other applications continue to be processed over the coming weeks.

"Adding additional resources today is one way we can help you directly to feel more secure and more safe at home while also helping you in this moment of high cost of living," Premier Wab Kinew said.

The premier said he is expecting close to 10,000 residents will be able to access the rebate with the new funding.

"We're past the era of slogans and press releases under the previous government that tried to oversimplify things," Kinew said. "We're here about real results for you and making Manitobans safer."