Nov 29 2013
Through the combined efforts of the Governments of Canada and Saskatchewan, and Cress Housing Corporation, repairs have been completed on three rental properties located at 1705 and 1709 22nd Street West and 1911 7th Street East in Saskatoon.
This project will provide 51 units of much needed affordable housing to low-income tenants renting suites in the three properties owned by Cress Housing Corporation.
Kelly Block, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Natural Resources and MP for Saskatoon-Rosetown-Biggar, on behalf of the Honourable Candice Bergen, Minister of State (Social Development); along with the Honourable June Draude, Minister of Social Services and Minister responsible for Saskatchewan Housing Corporation, made the announcement today.
"Our Government is investing in affordable housing in Saskatoon to help create jobs and improve the quality of life for Aboriginal households who need it most," said PS Block. "We remain focused on four priorities, as outlined by the Prime Minister, that Canadians care about most: their families, the safety of our streets and communities, their pride in being a citizen of this country, and of course, their personal financial security."
"Our goal is to help individuals and families in most housing need, and I am pleased that the rejuvenation of these rental properties supports that," said Minister Draude. "We know that maintaining our existing stock of rental properties is necessary in order to meet the growing housing needs in this province. We are proud to work with the Government of Canada and Cress Housing Corporation to make these improvements and therefore improve the quality of life of the tenants who will live here."
"The ongoing need for good, affordable homes in Saskatoon certainly reflects the need for further investment," said STC Tribal Chief Felix Thomas. "These apartment blocks are quality units that show our capacity to create and operate much needed affordable housing option in the city."
The approximate cost of the renovations is $1.5 million. The federal and provincial governments jointly contributed $1.2 million under the Investment in Affordable Housing 2011-2014 Agreement towards the project with the balance of the funding provided by Cress Housing Corporation in the form of cash equity. Cress Housing is an affordable housing organization for First Nations that operates under the Saskatoon Tribal Council (STC).
Prior to the repairs, the three buildings were vacant and the suites were seriously deteriorated. As a result of the renovations, 51 suites have been returned to the market and will provide quality and affordable housing to low-income households. Repairs included installation of new boilers, intercom/security cameras, fire alarm systems, roof repairs, window replacement, exterior doors, suite upgrades to kitchens and bathrooms, flooring and painting.
This funding comes as a result of the $55 million Canada-Saskatchewan Investment in Affordable Housing (IAH) 2011-2014 Agreement. Under the agreement, the Province of Saskatchewan will use the funds to create new and renovate existing affordable housing for households in need.