Seniors, Wellness and Social Development
August 21, 2015

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

Maintaining Affordable Seniors Housing

Renovation Investment to Improve St. John's Seniors Building

Work is expected to begin in September on major exterior renovations to the 15-unit Cochrane Manor seniors apartment building in St. John’s. Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation (NLHC) recently awarded the tender, valued at $469,000 to Newfound Roofing Ltd.

"The current renovation investment will ensure the continued availability and comfort of this historic St. John’s property. Once a hotel, Cochrane Manor now provides safe, accessible and affordable homes for seniors in greatest need. "
- The Honourable Clyde Jackman, Minister Responsible for the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation

The work will include roofing, siding, windows and exterior door replacements along with ventilation and electrical system upgrades. The property will also receive various site improvements, including a new wheelchair ramp at the rear entrance. The anticipated completion date for the project is April 2016.

“We recognize providing quality housing at affordable rates can contribute significantly to a person's overall well-being. Projects such as this enable seniors to continue living independent, active lives in their own communities where they have the support of family and friends.”
- John Ottenheimer, Chair and Chief Executive Officer, Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation

Budget 2015 provides $10 million to NLHC to upgrade 450 social housing units throughout the province.

"Investment in seniors' housing is a positive step toward meeting the needs of our aging population. The Provincial Advisory Council on Aging and Seniors fully supports the Provincial Government and Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation in developing policies and programs which directly benefit seniors in this province."
- Leo Bonnell, Chair, Provincial Advisory Council on Aging and Seniors

Since 2007, close to 77 per cent of Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation units province-wide have received upgrades. For more information on NLHC programs and services, see: www.nlhc.nf.ca/programs/programs.html opens new window

QUICK FACTS:

  • Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation is investing $469,000 to upgrade Cochrane Manor, a 15-unit seniors building in St. John’s.
  • The work will include roofing, siding, window and door replacements, along with ventilation and electrical system upgrades.
  • Budget 2015 provides $10 million to NLHC to upgrade 450 social housing units throughout the province.
  • Since 2007, about 77 per cent of Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation units province-wide have received upgrades.

- 30 -

Media contacts:

Heather May
Director of Communications
Department of Seniors, Wellness and Social Development
709-729-0928
heathermay@gov.nl.ca
Jenny Bowring
Communications Manager
Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation
709-724-3055
jmbowring@nlhc.nl.ca

2015 08 21                              1:25 p.m.