FAMILY HOUSING PROJECT UNDERWAY IN PRINCE ALBERT

A new rental housing project is underway in Prince Albert, thanks to approximately $2 million in funding through Saskatchewan Housing Corporation. The project is being undertaken by the Northern Spruce Housing Corporation to help meet significant housing need among First Nations families in the community.

"Our goal is to strengthen Saskatchewan's housing system, support a growing population and ensure housing is accessible to everyone," Municipal Affairs Minister Darryl Hickie said on behalf of Social Services Minister and Minister responsible for Saskatchewan Housing Corporation June Draude. "These homes will make a real and lasting difference for these families and for this neighbourhood. This is part of the Saskatchewan Advantage - to continue to make this province the best place to live, work and raise families."

"Northern Spruce Housing is very excited to see this development reach the construction stage," Northern Spruce Housing Corporation General Manager Kelly Skiffington said. "There are many people living in the City of Prince Albert looking for housing, especially in today's rental climate. These are people whose only desire is to have safe, secure and stable housing - somewhere they can put down roots. They want to raise their children within a caring neighbourhood in a home they can be proud of. Northern Spruce Housing is very honoured that we are now in a position to help them realize this dream."

The total cost of the project is about $2.9 million. Of that amount, about $2 million will be provided through the Aboriginal Housing Trust. The funding balance of approximately $873,000 will be provided by Northern Spruce.

Located in the West Hill neighbourhood of Prince Albert, the project will consist of five semi-detached houses, for a total of 10 units. The units are expected to be completed by June 2012.

Northern Spruce provides low income and affordable housing to the membership of the Prince Albert Grand Council (PAGC). They own 126 houses while managing another 64 units within Prince Albert.

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For more information, contact:

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