Government of Canada and Province of New Brunswick Officially Open New Affordable Housing for Seniors in Saint-Léonard

SAINT-LEONARD, New Brunswick, August 28, 2009 — The Province of New Brunswick and the Government of Canada officially opened a new 10-unit affordable housing project for seniors in Saint-Léonard.

Senator Percy Mockler, on behalf of Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development Canada and Minister Responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, and Kelly Lamrock, New Brunswick Social Development and Housing Minister were on hand to make the announcement.

"The Government of Canada is committed to making affordable housing available in New Brunswick and across Canada for those who need it most," said Senator Mockler. "This project will help seniors and persons with disabilities access safe and suitable housing, and build a stronger future for themselves."

"We are pleased to join our partners in this exciting new development that will see more affordable homes being created for the benefit of seniors," said Minister Lamrock, who is also minister responsible for housing. "The creation of these units will allow seniors to remain close to their families and friends, and remain active in their local community."

The $1.08 million project received $200,000 in federal funding to offset construction costs, as well as $439,000 in rent supplements from the Province of New Brunswick, as part of the Canada – New Brunswick Affordable Housing Agreement. Located adjacent to the Foyer Notre Dame de St-Léonard Inc. nursing home, the facility includes eight one-bedroom units and two, two-bedroom units. Two units are accessible for persons with disabilities.

The objective of the Canada – New Brunswick Affordable Housing Agreement is to create and sustain rental housing for low- to moderate-income New Brunswick households through new construction or rehabilitation. Funding is available to private non-profits, cooperatives, community or private developers interested in developing projects for low- to moderate-income families, seniors, non-elderly singles, disabled persons and persons with special needs.

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