PROVINCE INVESTS $2.4 MILLION IN HARBOUR HOUSE

Harbour House, a 30-unit apartment building for low-income men and women with children, officially opened its doors today in North Central Regina.

"Our government is dedicated to ensuring all Saskatchewan people benefit from our province's economic prosperity," Social Services Minister Donna Harpauer said. "And Harbour House, with a $2.4 million investment by the province will provide safe, secure and affordable housing for Saskatchewan people and in particular, families. I am very pleased to add this wonderful facility to a list of other low-income housing projects that are needed in our province."

"Our government is delivering on its commitment to help those who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless," said Andrew Scheer, Member of Parliament for Regina-Qu'Appelle, on behalf of the Honourable Monte Solberg, Minister of Human Resources and Social Development. "Federal funding of almost $260,000 has been contributed to this project. Working together, we can help our most vulnerable citizens find a place to call home, as well as find the supports they need to become more self-sufficient."

"The Harbour House affordable housing project is another great example of what can be accomplished when government and community work together to improve living conditions and quality of life for residents in Regina's inner city neighbourhoods," Regina Mayor Pat Fiacco said. "This project fits well with City Council's vision of a vibrant, inclusive, attractive, sustainable community where people live in harmony and thrive in opportunity."

The project was carried out by Souls Harbour Rescue Mission (The Mission), with support from the Province of Saskatchewan and other partners. More than 30 subcontractors provided materials and labour, in-kind and/or cash donations. Mission staff contributed approximately 1,000 hours to complete the project. The province provided $2.4 million for the project.

Located at 1610 Angus Street, Harbour House replaces the Mission's temporary emergency downtown shelter on Halifax Street. Harbour House consists of 30 modest, apartment-style units (25 bachelor and five one-bedroom) which are fully occupied.

"Through HomeFirst, the province's affordable housing framework, our goal is to help more Saskatchewan people find affordable, stable and quality housing," Harpauer said.

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For more information, contact:

Linda Saliken
Ministry of Social Services
Regina
Phone: 306-787-0246