Released on March 19, 2014
The 2014-15 provincial budget continues to provide better access to safe, quality affordable housing for Saskatchewan people.“Our commitment to our housing plan is working,” Social Services Minister June Draude said. “So far, we have invested $256 million to develop more than 4,500 units and repair more than 24,300 homes around the province. Vacancy rates have improved and housing starts are well above historical levels.
“In 2014-15, we will continue to work with our industry partners to invest in homes for Saskatchewan people.”
Highlights of the 2014-15 Budget include:
- $9.2 million for the first year of a five-year extension to the federal/provincial Investment in Affordable Housing Agreement for new affordable housing, home renovations, home adaptations and rental housing supplements;
- $750,000 to continue to support Habitat for Humanity and develop 12 new homes across the province;
- Expansion of the Life Lease Program to increase the number of affordable units available to seniors, offering them security of tenure in exchange for an upfront payment. Units will be available beginning this summer. An added advantage to expanding the Life Lease program is that equity deposits may be used to build or purchase group homes for people with intellectual disabilities supported by the Ministry of Social Services.
There were 8,290 housing starts in 2013 – 40 per cent above the 10-year average of 5,900.
“Our government is not just investing in housing: we are investing in homes, where people can raise their families, build their dreams, and secure their futures,” Draude said. “Providing access to safe, affordable homes is one of the most important ways we ensure a better quality of life for all Saskatchewan people.”
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For more information, contact:
Trish Alcorn
Social Services
Regina
Phone: 306-787-0916
Email: trish.alcorn@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-536-1479