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

Social Housing Renovations Underway in Happy Valley-Goose Bay

Renovations to social housing in Happy Valley-Goose Bay continues this summer as Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation (NLHC) advances the 2012 modernization and improvement program. Shears Electrical & Construction will complete $135,000 in renovations on four social housing units on White Crescent in Happy Valley-Goose Bay.

“Throughout the summer in communities across the province, renovations to social housing are underway as contractors and NLHC staff continue upgrading work,” said the Honourable Tom Hedderson, Minister Responsible for Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation. “This work provides for renovations and repairs that deliver immediate benefits to current tenants, and will increase the lifespan of units to help meet the needs of future tenants.”

This work is a continuation of the upgrades done on White Crescent over the past few years and will include new siding and exterior wall repairs. Window, doors, and roofing will also be replaced. This work is expected to be completed in October 2012.

“I am pleased to see these upgrades taking place in Happy Valley-Goose Bay,” said Keith Russell, MHA for Lake Melville. “I am very impressed with the Provincial Government’s focus on maintaining the social housing portfolio across the province."

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 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 27                     11:25 a.m.