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

Affordable Housing Upgrades for Hopedale

Paulo Ventures Ltd. has been awarded a contract valued at $224,000 to provide exterior renovations on social housing properties in Hopedale.

“The Provincial Government, through the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation, is making significant investments in upgrading the social housing portfolio in this province,” said the Honourable Tom Hedderson, Minister Responsible for Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation. “With upgrades such as these in Hopedale, we are modernizing homes, ensuring these properties will serve tenants well into the future.”

The work will include siding, window and roof replacement for three units on Carpenter’s Drive. The scheduled completion date for this project is July 2012.

“I am very pleased to see this work taking place in Hopedale,” said the Honourable Nick McGrath, Minister Responsible for Labrador Affairs. “Our government is committing considerable funds toward ensuring an ample supply of social housing is available in remote coastal Labrador. This investment advances the Provincial Government’s Northern Strategic Plan goal of accessible and effective programs and services that reflect the unique challenges that face Labrador communities.”

A Social Housing Plan for Newfoundland and Labrador - Secure Foundations, released by the Provincial Government 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 create healthier communities. 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.

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 12 06                             10:30 a.m.