SASKATCHEWAN HOUSING ANNOUNCES WINNERS OF FIRST RESEARCH GRANT

Two projects were chosen as recipients of the first Saskatchewan Housing Research Program grant totaling $45,000.

The first project focuses on factors contributing to homelessness among federally released offenders. This project is receiving $24,350 under principal investigator Dr. Stephen C.P. Wong of Saskatoon. The second project is related to the energy efficiency of hydronic radiant slab heating in housing, and is receiving $20,470. Its principal researcher is the Office of Energy Conservation in Regina. Both projects fall under the research theme: equity, self-sufficiency and efficiency in housing, which is linked to the provincial housing strategy, Homefirst.

"We are pleased that two ambitious projects were selected by the housing research committee as the first recipients of our grant," Community Resources Minister Buckley Belanger said. "Our goal is to promote not only the results of this research, but to encourage the housing industry to adopt and apply the information and results. Research may seem intangible, but it can have a direct benefit to people living here in Saskatchewan. For example, over time, improved energy efficiency can help to make housing more affordable for owners and tenants, which is one goal of Homefirst."

Saskatchewan Housing conducted its call for research from November 2005 through January 2006. Successful projects were chosen based on specific criteria with the goal of providing financial assistance to qualified researchers who are conducting high quality investigations on relevant topics related to housing in Saskatchewan. Eight groups and individuals submitted proposals.

The two successful research projects are expected to be completed by April 2007. More detailed information on each project is available on the department website at www.dcre.gov.sk.ca/housing.html.

The next call for research applications is slated for late summer 2006. Updated application guidelines and an application form will be posted on the website at that time.

-30-

For More Information, Contact:

Debbie Clark Community Resources Regina Phone: (306) 787-8689