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

Social Housing Renovations Continue in Western Region

Twenty-five social housing units in Western Newfoundland will undergo $98,500 in upgrades, as Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation continues to deliver its annual modernization and improvement program throughout the province.

“These upgrades in western Newfoundland will make meaningful enhancements to these affordable homes, to the benefit of tenants,” said the Honourable Tom Hedderson, Minister Responsible for Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation. “This adds to the significant upgrades that have been ongoing in the region, especially over the past few years, when significant progress began with respect to upgrading the social housing portfolio province-wide.”

Premier Siding was awarded a contract valued at $41,000 to refurbish the roof of an eight unit building on Beothuk Crescent in Corner Brook.

“I am pleased to see this modernization and improvement work taking place,” said Vaughn Granter, MHA for Humber West. “Our social housing neighbourhoods in Corner Brook are being revitalized as Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation continues to upgrade homes for families and individuals with low-incomes.”

Star Construction was awarded a contract valued at $8,500 to repair foundations on two social housing units in St. Andrew’s and St. George’s. A contract valued at $5,000 was awarded to Gale’s Septic to install a sewer system in a unit in St. Andrew’s. In addition, Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation staff completed $29,000 in walkway replacements on 12 units on Wyoming Drive in Stephenville.

“It is always great to see Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation investing in the social housing properties in our area,” said the Honourable Joan Burke, Minister of Advanced Education and Skills and MHA for St. George’s - Stephenville East. “This work will ensure that these properties will be able to meet the needs of tenants in the region.”

Another contract, valued at $15,000 was awarded to Shear’s Electrical and Construction Ltd. to replace windows on two units in Hampton.

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 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 09                            2:15 p.m.