HOUSING FOR STUDENTS/SINGLES OFFICIALLY OPENS IN SASKATOON

Twenty-seven new rental suites for First Nations students and individuals employed in entry level positions officially opened today in Saskatoon. The province, through Saskatchewan Housing Corporation (SHC), provided about $2.6 million toward the total project cost of approximately $3.1 million. The City of Saskatoon provided a capital grant of $300,000 as well as a five year incremental property tax abatement.

"We are proud that this project supports our government's goal of creating housing options specifically for students," Advanced Education, Employment and Immigration Minister Rob Norris said on behalf of Social Services Minister and Minister responsible for Saskatchewan Housing Corporation June Draude. "These suites create additional housing for First Nations students pursuing further education, a key component to the future success of the urban First Nations population and to keeping the Saskatchewan Advantage."

"The City of Saskatoon proudly supports this new student housing project by Cress Housing," Saskatoon Mayor Donald Atchison said. "Safe, affordable, quality housing is very important to ensure that tomorrow's generation of professionals, trades people and business leaders are well educated and get a good start in life. One of the city's priorities in our new strategic plan is to develop partnerships with Aboriginal organizations to enhance economic, employment and training opportunities. It all starts with proper housing. Congratulations to Cress Housing."

"This project is another example of how the Saskatoon Tribal Council works toward improving the quality of life for our people," Cress Housing Corporation Board Chairman Tribal Chief Felix Thomas said. "This project in particular speaks also to the commitment toward education and providing our youth with a fundamental platform to build a successful life, which is affordable and quality housing."

SHC continues to work with the for-profit and not-for-profit sectors to develop new housing opportunities in Saskatoon. Since November 2007, 862 affordable rental units (including this project) have been completed in Saskatoon with an additional 133 currently under construction.

Located at 315 Avenue H South, the project consists of the new construction of a 27-unit apartment in a walk-out style building. The project was undertaken by Cress Housing Corporation, an agency of the Saskatoon Tribal Council dedicated to providing affordable and adequate housing for First Nations persons living in the City of Saskatoon.

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For more information, contact:

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