The following is being distributed at the request of Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation:

Grand Bank Social Housing Units to Be Upgraded

The Provincial Government is investing more than $80,000 to upgrade eight affordable social housing units in Grand Bank this summer, as part of Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation’s 2011-12 modernization and improvement program.

“I am delighted with the significant gains we have made over the past two years in upgrading our existing housing portfolio throughout the province,” said the Honourable Darin King, Minister Responsible for Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation. “This current work will also ensure that we continue to have a supply of safe and affordable housing to meet the future needs of those with the greatest need.”

The work will include the replacement of siding, windows, and doors. Tenders will be called soon, and anticipated completion date for the work is early fall.

A Social Housing Plan for Newfoundland and Labrador - Secure Foundations, released in August 2009, outlines a long-term vision for social housing. It is aimed at improving the housing circumstances of low-income households and helping to create healthier communities. Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation is the province’s largest landlord with approximately 5,573 non-profit social housing dwellings province-wide.

Budget 2011 Standing Strong: For Prosperity. For Our Future. For Newfoundland and Labrador also allocated $25.9 million for social housing infrastructure, including $10.4 million for maintenance and $12 million for renovations and improvements.

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2011 07 25                                                                           10:30 a.m.