$1 MILLION AFFORDABLE HOUSING PROJECT OPENS IN SASKATOON

A 10-unit affordable rental housing project in Saskatoon is officially open for low-income singles and families, thanks to approximately $1 million in federal-provincial funding.

"The Government of Canada is providing the opportunity for Canadians to rise out of the cycle of homelessness and poverty," said Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development Canada. "Through this investment, the Cress Housing Corporation will give Aboriginal families in need a hand up so they have the opportunity to find housing stability, become more self-sufficient and transition to independent living."

"Our government is committed to building better lives for Saskatchewan people and affordable housing is a key part of that," Social Services Minister and Minister responsible for Saskatchewan Housing Corporation Donna Harpauer said. "This project, and others like it, will help more Saskatoon families access safe, affordable, quality housing that meets their needs, and will help build a complete, healthy and inclusive community."

"Safe, affordable housing is a key foundation for the growth of our city and the well-being of our citizens," Saskatoon Mayor Donald Atchison said. "The City of Saskatoon is pleased to participate in this project as we continue to strive to increase the supply of affordable housing in our community."

The total cost of the renovation project is approximately $1 million. Of that amount, the province contributed about $600,000 under the Rental Development Program, with Human Resources and Skills Development Canada providing $366,000 under the Homelessness Partnering Strategy and the City of Saskatoon providing about $104,000.

Located at 114 Avenue V North in the Mount Royal neighbourhood of Saskatoon, the renovation project was undertaken by Cress Housing Corporation, a registered non-profit and charitable corporation which has been operating in Saskatoon since 1984.

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For more information, contact:

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

Daryl Sexsmith
City of Saskatoon
Saskatoon
Phone: 306-975-7693