SENIORS' HOUSING PROJECT BREAKS NEW GROUND IN SASKATOON

The Government of Canada, Province of Saskatchewan and the City of Saskatoon contributed $250,000 to an innovative new housing project for seniors, which is now underway in Saskatoon.

Abbeyfield Homes is building the 10-unit project with the help of the Centenary Affordable Housing Program (CAHP). Located at the former Sanitorium site in Saskatoon, the wheelchair-accessible home will accommodate 10 seniors, and has a common kitchen, a large living and dining room, laundry facilities, and a recreation area. At least five units will be targeted to seniors of modest income.

"This investment from the Government of Canada will enable the Abbeyfield Homes to continue providing the essential programs and services to seniors and people who need them most," said the Honourable Joe Fontana, Minister of Labour and Housing. "We are committed to helping local organizations develop housing and homelessness solutions that meet the needs of their community."

"I am pleased that this project is consistent with HomeFirst, our government,s five-year housing strategy announced last year," Premier Lorne Calvert said. "HomeFirst is a new way of helping Saskatchewan people build independence by creating more choices in where and what they call home."

"We are very proud to have helped with this innovative project that lets seniors retain their dignity and independence," Saskatoon Mayor Don Atchinson said. "Our community is strengthened when partners come together to help others in such a significant way."

"This project provides much needed safe and affordable housing for senior citizens in our community," Abbeyfield Homes Chair Abraham Yuen said. "This new home is a viable alternative to care facilities and promote independence for our seniors."

Canada Mortgage and Housing (CMHC) is contributing $135,000 to the CAHP loan. The project is also receiving $90,000 from Saskatchewan Housing Corporation (SHC), and $25,000 from the City of Saskatoon. The Saskatoon Credit Union is providing mortgage financing and the balance of funding will be gained through private fund raising. The total estimated capital cost of the project is approximately $800,000.

Abbeyfield Homes is the second Abbeyfield project in Saskatchewan. The first was built in Prince Albert in 2002. Abbeyfield houses have been developed in 14 countries around the world and there are over 20 houses in Canada. Their unique approach provides a supportive environment in which a small group of seniors live like a family, with a live-in co-ordinator who helps with meal preparation and the running of the home.

This project is part of the Centenary Affordable Housing Program, an intergovernmental initiative to increase the supply of affordable off-reserve housing in Saskatchewan. The program is funded by CMHC, Saskatchewan Housing Corporation and local municipalities.

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For More Information, Contact:

Greg Urbanoski Community Resources and Employment Regina Phone: (306) 787-4011 Cell: (306) 537-2879