FOUR-UNIT HOUSING PROJECT FOR FAMILIES OPENS IN YORKTON

Families in Yorkton will have better access to safe, quality housing that meets their needs following the official opening today of a new four-unit rental housing project. The project, which was undertaken by the Provincial Métis Housing Corporation (PMHC), received approximately $900,000 in funding through Saskatchewan Housing Corporation (SHC).

"This project is aligned with a number of strategic priorities that were outlined in the Provincial Housing Strategy - the need to increase housing supply, to improve housing affordability and to support individuals and families in greatest housing need," Social Services Minister and Minister responsible for Saskatchewan Housing Corporation June Draude said. "We are pleased to work with PMHC to achieve these goals and to maintain the Saskatchewan Advantage so that everyone benefits from our province's growth and strong economy."

"Provincial Métis Housing Corporation and the Métis Nation-Saskatchewan are very pleased to offer Métis families the opportunity to live in safe, comfortable and affordable housing," PMHC General Manager Greg MacLeod said. "We would like to thank both levels of government for their financial assistance, and the City of Yorkton for providing tax incentives for the construction of these affordable rental units in the City of Yorkton. We would also like to thank Highland Contracting Ltd. for the quality of workmanship and care in the construction of these duplex units."

The total cost of the project is about $1.3 million. Of that amount, Saskatchewan Housing Corporation provided about $900,000 through the Métis Housing Trust. The funding balance was provided by PMHC (approximately $115,000) and mortgage financing.

The project consists of two semi-detached bi-level buildings, for a total of four units. Each unit has five bedrooms and 1,905 square feet of living space. Targeted tenants are working parents with four or more children. The homes are located at 155 and 159 Ontario Avenue in Yorkton near schools, shopping and other amenities.

The Government of Saskatchewan continues to work with the not-for-profit sector to develop new housing opportunities in Yorkton. Since November 2007, 66 new affordable units either have been completed or are under construction, including 10 units for youth-at-risk, and 22 units for seniors in Yorkton.

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For more information, contact:

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