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

Social Housing Upgrades Underway in Central St. John’s Neighbourhood

Social housing enhancements in the capital city continue with a contract valued at $248,000 to renovate affordable housing units. Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation awarded the contract to Avalon Home Works Inc. to complete renovations to five homes.

“This work will complement the substantial upgrades and renovations currently underway in several neighbourhoods in St. John’s, which include the ongoing renewal of the Rabbittown Community Centre,” said the Honourable Tom Hedderson, Minister Responsible for Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation. “This investment demonstrates the Provincial Government’s commitment to improve and modernize social housing throughout the province.”

Work will be completed on four units on Whiteway Street and one unit on Hoyles Avenue and will include siding, door, window, and roof replacement, as well as ventilation system upgrades. The anticipated completion date for the work is November 2012.

A Social Housing Plan for Newfoundland and Labrador - Secure Foundations, released by the Provincial Government in August 2009, outlines a 10-year vision for social housing. It is aimed at improving the housing circumstances of low-income households and helping create healthier communities. Budget 2012: People and Prosperity 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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2012 06 07             11:15 a.m.