SOCIAL SERVICES MINISTER LAUNCHES HABITAT FOR HUMANITY WOMEN BUILD IN SASKATOON

Social Services Minister and Minister Responsible for Saskatchewan Housing Corporation (SHC) June Draude today officially launched the Habitat for Humanity Women Build affordable housing project in Saskatoon that will help one more Saskatchewan family realize their dream of homeownership.

The Women Build project is the result of a partnership between SHC and Habitat for Humanity Saskatoon. The province is providing $50,000 to the project to facilitate housing development, strengthen communities and encourage women's participation in the skilled trades and technologies. The project will be led by Cameco Corporation and run from mid-July to mid-August.

"Our government is proud to partner with Habitat for Humanity on another home that will make a world of difference to a family," Draude said. "This build, and others like it, is an opportunity for us to show just how successful we - men and women - can be when we work together. This investment is truly a part of the Saskatchewan Advantage, of living in a province where potential is realized, dreams are fulfilled and people can have a home to call their own."

"We are thrilled to be able to bring this event back for 2011," Habitat for Humanity Saskatoon Executive Director Barb Cox-Lloyd said. "Our three previous Women Builds were a tremendous success. Not only have they helped to provide safe and beautiful homes for three families, but they have provided a unique volunteer experience. It is also our pleasure to partner with the Saskatchewan Housing Corporation to provide homes for working families."

Since 2009, the province has dedicated $3.5 million in funding for Habitat for Humanity affiliates and chapters in Regina, Saskatoon, Yorkton, Moose Jaw, Prince Albert and Lloydminster to help build a total of 70 homes across the province. To date, the government has committed more than $1.55 million of the $3.5 million in grant funding available to Saskatchewan Habitat for Humanity affiliates to develop 31 homes.

Women Build is a Habitat for Humanity program that promotes women's leadership and participation in the construction industry, and provides concrete, practical opportunities for women to learn and practice trade skills under the direction of skilled tradespeople.

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For more information, contact:

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