Released June 8, 2009

Newfoundland Labrador Housing has issued a Request for Proposals for the development and operation of affordable rental housing throughout the province.

Approximately $26 million will be available for the Affordable Housing Initiative, through the recently signed Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Affordable Housing Agreement and the Government of Canada' s 2009 Economic Action Plan.

"This joint federal-provincial investment will enable private and non-profit groups the opportunity to build new, affordable rental housing throughout the province," said the Honourable Trevor Taylor, Minister of Transportation and Works and Minister Responsible for Newfoundland Labrador Housing.

"The focus of the Affordable Housing Program is low-income seniors, persons with disabilities and supportive rental housing."

It is anticipated that more than 300 units can be provided throughout Newfoundland and Labrador, under the private sector, community-based and supportive housing components. Proponents may be eligible for capital assistance in the form of a forgivable loan. The private sector may avail of $35,000 per unit on the island, and $50,000 per unit in Labrador. Non-profit proponents will be able to avail of $125,000 per unit on the island, and $150,000 per unit in Labrador, to create new rental units.

Potential proponents are reminded that the deadline for submissions has been extended to June 22, 2009.

Under the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Affordable Housing Agreement and the Government of Canada' s 2009 Economic Action Plan, the overall provincial contribution is $50 million, while the Federal Government is contributing a further $43 million resulting in a joint investment of approximately $93 million over the next two years.

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