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

Bell Island Social Housing Renovations Underway

Six affordable housing properties on Bell Island are being renovated as the Provincial Government continues to invest in the modernization of social housing throughout the province.

“These renovations complement the many modernization and improvement projects taking place throughout Newfoundland and Labrador to maintain safe and affordable social housing for people with low incomes,” said the Honourable Tom Hedderson, Minister Responsible for Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation (NLHC). “Renovating social housing has been a priority for this government, and our renovation program is just one of a diverse set of initiatives by the NLHC to ensure housing supports are available for people who need them.”

G.S. Hunt Ltd. has been awarded contracts totalling $235,000 to complete the work which includes siding, window, roofing, exterior door, and ventilation system replacements that will improve the energy efficiency of the homes. Repairs to steps, decks, and ramps will also take place. The work is expected to be completed this summer.

“This government continues to make significant investments and improvements to social housing throughout the province,” said David Brazil, MHA for Conception Bay East - Bell Island. “I am pleased to see this work will modernize these properties by making them more energy efficient. This will help maintain these homes as comfortable living spaces for tenants for years to come.”

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 07 27             12:55 p.m.