$3.6 MILLION AFFORDABLE HOUSING PROJECT FOR ABORIGINAL FAMILIES IN SASKATOON

Seventy more Aboriginal families and individuals will have access to quality, affordable rental housing in Saskatoon as part of a $3.6 million project announced today.

The project consists of the acquisition and renovation of two three-storey apartment buildings located in mature neighbourhoods in Saskatoon.

"This project has brought together the provincial and municipal governments to help make life better for Aboriginal families in Saskatoon and to build stronger communities," Saskatoon Fairview MLA Andy Iwanchuk said on behalf of Community Resources Minister Kevin Yates. "Through HomeFirst, our provincial housing strategy, we are working with local people and local groups to help lower-income families get the quality, affordable housing they need and the independence that they deserve."

Renovation of the two apartment buildings officially began today. The two buildings are located at 1802 - 22nd Street in Mount Royal and #5 Borden Place in Confederation Park. Once renovated, the apartment buildings will contain two bachelor units, 26 one-bedroom units, 36 two-bedroom units and six three-bedroom units, for a total of 70 suites.

The project is being undertaken by Sasknative Rentals Inc., with support from the Government of Saskatchewan and the City of Saskatoon.

"Through the City of Saskatoon's Affordable Housing program, we are able to help provide safe, suitable housing for many families within this project," Saskatoon Mayor Donald Atchison said. "These two buildings will become homes, where families can raise their children and strengthen the community in which they live."

The total project cost is estimated at $3.6 million, with nearly $3.3 million or 90 per cent of the funding being provided by the province through the Saskatchewan Housing Corporation. The City of Saskatoon is contributing approximately $357,000.

"We are pleased to partner with the province and the City of Saskatoon to provide more quality, affordable rental housing for Aboriginal people," Sasknative Rentals Inc. Board chair Wilf Blondeau said. "This 70-unit project is going to make a real difference in the quality of life of its tenants."

Sasknative Rentals Inc., a non-profit incorporated in 1983, provides appropriate, safe, well-serviced and maintained housing for Aboriginal people in Saskatoon. Over the next three years, Sasknative Rentals Inc. will invest an additional $105,000 to continue to upgrade the interiors of these 70 affordable housing units.

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For more information, contact:

Brian Miller
Community Resources
Regina
Phone: 306-787-0531
Email: bmiller3@cr.gov.sk.ca

Alan Wallace
City of Saskatoon
Saskatoon
Phone: 306-975-2650