$250,000 TO SUPPORT AFFORDABLE HOUSING IN MOOSE JAW

Ten more families in Moose Jaw will be able to build independence through home ownership, following the announcement today of funding of up to $250,000 from the provincial government and the City of Moose Jaw under the Neighbourhood Home Ownership Program (NHOP).

Established in 1998, NHOP helps modest-income families acquire good, affordable homes in inner-city neighbourhoods. Qualifying families form co-operatives to purchase the homes, with the province and the city providing funding through a forgivable equity loan. After five years as a co-operative member, families may assume ownership of their home from the co-op.

"NHOP is a prime example of how the province partners with communities to build independence and ensure adequate, affordable housing for the people of Saskatchewan," Community Resources and Employment Minister Glenn Hagel said. "The provincial government, through the Saskatchewan Housing Corporation, is pleased to assist with purchasing 10 more homes under NHOP in Moose Jaw, which will help ensure a wide open future for the people of this city."

The funding includes a commitment from the City of Moose Jaw to fund 20 per cent of the total project. The neighbourhood development organization Connecting As Neighbours Co-operative has assumed responsibility to work with the families in developing the new co-operative.

"The City of Moose Jaw has actively supported NHOP since its inception, helping to put 20 families on the path to home ownership in our community," Moose Jaw Mayor Al Schwinghamer said. "We are pleased to continue our partnership with the province and Connecting As Neighbours Co-operative in supporting such a worthy initiative. It is initiatives like this that make our community a much better place in which to live and raise families."

"The NHOP program is a valuable resource for families in Moose Jaw," Connecting As Neighbours Co-operative Executive Director Sharol Murdock said. "We look forward to working with the city and the province to develop a new housing co-operative in our community."

To date, more than 200 homes have been purchased across Saskatchewan under NHOP, helping to rejuvenate inner-city neighbourhoods in Regina, Saskatoon, Moose Jaw and Prince Albert.

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For More Information, Contact:

Herman Hulshof Community Resources and Employment Regina Phone: (306)787-0916