FREDERICTON (GNB) – Twelve new apartments for people with disabilities were officially opened today in Fredericton.

"With the opening of these new units, we are enhancing the quality of life of New Brunswickers and their families by investing in safe and affordable housing," said Social Development Minister Sue Stultz, who is also minister responsible for seniors, housing and community non-profit organizations. "Our government will continue to work to ensure that affordable housing is available for the long term and focused on the needs of New Brunswickers."

Hawkins House, located at 116A Sunset Dr., is an addition to a 19-unit affordable housing project. The complex was established by York Developments Inc., a private developer. The project represents an investment of close to $1.3 million.

"Our government is dedicated to giving a hand-up to those in need in New Brunswick through these tough economic times," said Fisheries and Oceans Minister Keith Ashfield. "Through projects such as these, we are providing safe, affordable housing to residents in our community, including seniors and families, while also creating jobs and stimulating our economy."

Ashfield attended on behalf of Diane Finley, minister of human resources and skills development as well as minister responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp.

The development received close to $950,000 in rent supplements from the provincial government for all 12 units and $480,000 in federal stimulus funding to offset construction costs.

Funding was made available through Canada's Economic Action Plan. The provincial and federal governments contribute equally to the overall investment of $75 million under the amended Canada-New Brunswick Affordable Housing Program Agreement.

Hawkins House was built to high energy-efficiency standards and involved consultation with Efficiency NB. Builders of multi-unit residential buildings may qualify to receive incentives from Efficiency NB if the building meets energy efficiency targets.

It was also announced that more than 2,350 units in New Brunswick have received more than $37 million in federal and provincial funding under three different initiatives: Canada's Economic Action Plan, the 2009 Extension of the Canada – New Brunswick Affordable Housing Initiative and the Affordable Housing Trust.

Under these agreements, funding is available to private non-profit organizations, co-operatives, and community or private developers interested in developing projects for low-income families, seniors, non-elderly singles, disabled persons and persons with special needs.

LINKS:

●    Department of Social Development (housing):  www.gnb.ca/housing
●    Efficiency NB: www.efficiencynb.ca
●    Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. www.cmhc.ca/housingactionplan


13-04-12