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

NLHC Welcomes Tenants to the 27th Annual Tenant Conference

Strive Grow Change is the theme of the 27th Annual Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation (NLHC) Tenant Conference, being held in Gander today and tomorrow (September 14 and 15). More than 100 social housing tenants will be in attendance as representatives from 38 volunteer associations from across the province.

“The annual conference is an excellent opportunity to hear ideas and suggestions from tenants, which helps direct us in neighbourhood improvements and the continued success of our provincial social housing plan,” said the Honourable Tom Hedderson, Minister Responsible for Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation. “This event also recognizes the years of service and contributions of groups that have been working hard to create positive change in their neighbourhoods and communities.”

Tenant associations include people of all ages who come together to organize community events and support causes in their neighbourhoods and communities. Celebrating their 25th anniversaries are: Buckmaster’s Circle Tenant Association in St. John’s; United Neighbourhood Tenant Association, representing Brophy Place neighbourhood in St. John’s; and the Community Togetherness Tenant Association in Marystown. Forsey Place Tenant Association in Mount Pearl is celebrating its 15th anniversary, while A.C.E. Tenant Association in Bishop’s Falls is cerebrating its 10th anniversary.

In addition, Virginia Park Community Centre in St. John’s is celebrating its 25th anniversary.

“Virginia Park Community Centre has seen tremendous growth and achieved much over the past 25 years,” said the Honourable Kathy Dunderdale, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador and MHA for Virginia Waters. “The staff, volunteers, and tenant users have worked in close collaboration to offer valuable programs and services that help people build their strengths and pursue new opportunities.”

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 09 14                            2:15 p.m.