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

Minister Hedderson Welcomes Housing Congress

The Honourable Tom Hedderson, Minister Responsible for Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation, congratulated the Canadian Housing and Renewal Association (CHRA) today on its 44th Annual Congress currently underway in St. John's. The congress brings together leading experts, advocates, and governmental representatives across the country to discuss affordable housing issues and solutions.

“The Provincial Government is honoured to be a sponsor of the Canadian Housing and Renewal Association’s 44th Annual Congress,” said Minister Hedderson. “This is a great opportunity to learn from other jurisdictions, and for Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation to showcase its accomplishments through our provincial social housing plan, Secure Foundations.”

The CHRA started in the mid-sixties when a group of concerned urban renewal professionals in Toronto joined the Upper New York State Chapter of the National Association of Housing Redevelopment Officials, and from this nucleus, in 1967, the Canadian Association of Housing and Renewal Officials was formed. The organization that became CHRA is the only national voice in Canada speaking on the full range of issues related to affordable housing here and abroad, including keeping homes affordable, ending homelessness, renewing communities, and supporting a sustainable housing profession.

“Our response to the diverse housing needs of people in this province is comprehensive and evolving, and through our ongoing consultations with stakeholders, we will continue to enhance supports for people in vulnerable circumstances,” said Minister Hedderson. “I am confident that valuable information will be exchanged at the congress this week through the various delegate discussions at the convention, and through such dialogue, we will see new ideas and initiatives for the future.”

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2012 05 03                           10:00 a.m.