PROVINCE AND HABITAT FOR HUMANITY HELP FOUR REGINA FAMILIES ACHIEVE HOMEOWNERSHIP

Four Habitat for Humanity Regina partner families have become homeowners, thanks to a total of $200,000 in funding assistance from the province through Saskatchewan Housing Corporation. The families were officially presented with keys to their new homes in a special ceremony held today.

"These homes are wonderful examples of what can be achieved when we all work together to move Saskatchewan forward," Social Services Minister and Minister responsible for Saskatchewan Housing Corporation June Draude said. "Our goal is to help Saskatchewan people have better access to homes that enhance well-being, build communities and contribute to a growing province. These homes are concrete examples of that vision in action, and we look forward to more opportunities to provide Saskatchewan families a choice in where and what they call home."

"We are truly grateful for the support of our partners in the Saskatchewan Housing Corporation and our long-time partners at Mosaic and Farm Credit Canada," Habitat for Humanity Regina CEO Dennis Coutts said. "It is support from the government and private companies, as well as individuals that allow us to continue helping families achieve homeownership."

Since 2009, the province has dedicated $3.5 million in funding for Habitat for Humanity affiliates and chapters in Regina, Moose Jaw, Saskatoon, Yorkton, Prince Albert and Lloydminster to help build a total of 70 homes across the province. To date, funding has provided 21 families with the opportunity to move into Habitat for Humanity homes. An additional 21 homes are currently under construction.

With the cost of building new homes increasing significantly, Habitat is one of the few organizations whose distinct delivery model continues to provide viable homeownership opportunities for low- to moderate-income families. Each selected Habitat partner family contributes 500 hours of sweat equity to build their home and other Habitat for Humanity homes, and participates in valuable training and preparation sessions. In return, their lives are transformed by the positive experience of working with the Habitat for Humanity community and by the many benefits that come along with homeownership.

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For more information, contact:

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