The following statement was issued today by Paul Shelley, Minister of Human Resources, Labour and Employment and responsible for the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation. It was also read in the House of Assembly:

I rise today to announce, November 22, as National Housing Day. In support of this event, this morning we joined community and corporate leaders in the launch of �Raising the Roof 2006." Through the sale of toques, this national fund-raising campaign helps to serve those most at risk for homelessness in our province and country.

That there are still people in this day and age without a roof over their heads is a source of concern to all members of society. The need for housing � not to mention warm headwear � in a climate such as ours is abundantly clear.

It is up to all of us to act to close the door on homelessness. The key to achieving this goal is to develop community awareness. Raising the Roof is Canada�s only national homelessness charity, and last year, Newfoundland and Labrador raised $14,000 to support this campaign.

Elected officials, government employees, and volunteers alike recognize housing as a basic human need. And throughout the winter, as we wear our Raising the Roof toques, we will be reminded of those without a home.

Proceeds from this year�s toque sales will go to four shelter and supportive housing providers in St. John�s: Stella Burry Community Services, AIDS Committee of Newfoundland and Labrador, the St. John�s Native Friendship Centre Association, and the Salvation Army. These organizations have recently built or are building new shelters and supportive housing in St. John�s.

Let me reaffirm that this government is indeed committed to the cause of helping the homeless. Along with the federal government, we have invested millions of dollars in community-based homelessness projects in Newfoundland and Labrador, and we work closely with many of the partners and community organizations involved with this campaign.

In 2004-05, in partnership with the federal government, Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation spent approximately $100 million in support of social housing programs in Newfoundland and Labrador.

In St. John�s alone, under NLHC�s Shelter Enhancement program, some $300,000 has been provided through partnerships with groups such as the Stella Burry Corporation, Choices Youth, Kirby House and Libra House . Other properties which have been provided funding under the Affordable Housing Program include the Salvation Army�s Wiseman Centre here in St. John�s

We have also announced an increase in the minimum wage in our province. We continue to provide income support and career services. We are finalizing our Poverty Reduction Strategy. Even so, we must continue to work together towards addressing homelessness.

In closing, on behalf of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, I extend congratulations and appreciation to everyone involved with the St. John�s Community Advisory Committee on Homelessness, and to everyone involved with the Raising the Roof campaign. Quite simply, your work is making a difference in the lives of those who need it most, and we are proud of your efforts.

2005 11 22                             4:30 p.m.