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

Social Housing Renovations Underway in Central Newfoundland

Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation is investing $123,000 to renovate social housing units in four central Newfoundland communities.

“This work highlights the Provincial Government’s commitment to providing access to affordable housing to families with low incomes throughout the province,” said the Honourable Tom Hedderson, Minister Responsible for Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation. “Renovations are part of the ongoing modernization and improvement program to upgrade the provincial rental housing portfolio.”

Nine units in Cottlesville, Summerford and Comfort Cove-Newstead will undergo renovations to replace shingles, eaves, windows and doors, and plumbing and ventilation systems. This contract valued at $86,000 has been awarded to Mutford’s Carpentry.

“These projects demonstrate Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation’s commitment to maintaining and improving its social housing portfolio,” said the Honourable Derrick Dalley, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation and MHA for The Isles of Notre Dame. “This ensures that families with low incomes throughout the province have the option of affordable housing.”

Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation staff are currently completing renovations valued at $37,000 on three units in Norris Arm. These renovations include replacing windows and waterlines, repairing foundations and driveways, and some roof repairs.

“I am delighted to see Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation getting into communities in this area to upgrade its social housing properties,” said Wade Verge, MHA for Lewisporte. “The progress being made is visible in every corner of the province where social housing exists.”

Work is expected to be complete by the end of this month.

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 15             1:40 p.m.