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

Social Housing Property Upgrades Underway on South Coast

Renovations to social housing properties in three communities on Newfoundland’s south coast are currently underway.

“Newfoundland and Labrador Housing is making significant progress in maintaining and improving its social housing portfolio throughout the province,” said the Honourable Tom Hedderson, Minister Responsible for Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation. “I am delighted to see this investment in these housing properties on the south coast and how the upgrades will, in turn, improve daily living for the families residing in these units.”

Norvaco Construction has been awarded contracts valued at more than $135,000. The work is expected to be complete by the end of this month.

The contracts include:

• $78,600 to carry out various upgrades on units on Ruston Avenue and Main Street in St. Alban’s, including window, door, shingle and eave replacements, new attic insulation and waterlines, and other minor exterior work;
• $23,000 to install new shingles, eaves, windows, doors and waterlines on units in Hermitage; and,
• $34,000 for new shingles, windows and doors on units in Harbour Breton.

“I am delighted that these homes are being renovated, giving their tenants a comfortable and modern place to call home,” said Tracey Perry, MHA for Fortune Bay - Cape La Hune. “Newfoundland and Labrador Housing has been doing a great job and these upgrades are certainly appreciated.”

A Social Housing Plan for Newfoundland and Labrador - Secure Foundations, released in August 2009 by the Provincial Government, 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. Budget 2011 Standing Strong: For Prosperity. For Our Future. For Newfoundland and Labrador allocated $25.9 million for social housing infrastructure, including $10.4 million for maintenance and $12 million for renovations and improvements.

Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation is the province’s largest landlord with approximately 5,573 non-profit social housing dwellings province-wide.

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2011 11 23             10:25 a.m.