With the cost of living in Canada continuing to skyrocket, especially in cities like Toronto and Vancouver, many immigrants-particularly those from India’s northern states of Punjab and Haryana-are struggling to keep up with soaring housing, grocery, and utility expenses. As a result, some are exploring unconventional ways to survive financially in an increasingly challenging environment.
A creative response to financial struggles
One story that recently caught public attention involves Monique Jeremiah, a 37-year-old Canadian woman who found herself in a financial crisis during the COVID-19 pandemic. Left alone after a breakup and facing a sudden loss of income, Monique had to think outside the box to make ends meet. Her solution? Renting out one side of her bed to strangers-a concept now gaining momentum online.
The rise of ‘Hot Bedding’ as a side hustle
The practice, referred to as hot bedding, involves two unrelated individuals sharing the same bed-usually with alternating schedules or clear agreements in place. Monique began advertising this shared sleeping space at an affordable nightly rate and was astonished by the high demand. Over time, this side hustle evolved into a significant source of income, reportedly helping her earn up to $50,000 a month at its peak.
Monique emphasised that the arrangement came with clear boundaries-there was no obligation for physical contact, and any interaction such as cuddling had to be mutually agreed upon. Her openness about the experience has ignited widespread debate, with critics highlighting safety and privacy concerns, while others praised the ingenuity and even shared their own similar ventures.
Economic pressure fuels innovation among immigrants
The growing interest in alternative living arrangements like hot bedding reflects a broader trend among immigrants in Canada who are trying to adapt to rising costs. With limited access to affordable housing and stagnant wages, some newcomers-many of whom are students or temporary workers-are increasingly leaning on such unconventional solutions to survive.
Shared accommodations, rotating shifts for room use, and even time-based kitchen access are becoming common practices in densely populated immigrant communities. Though these methods may raise eyebrows, they point to the larger issue: the need for more inclusive housing policies and financial support for newcomers navigating life in expensive urban centers.
