April 28, 2006

The province is inviting project ideas from community groups and non-profit organizations for unique proposals that will improve housing in areas such as Winnipeg’s inner city.

"We welcome ideas from organizations that have a stake in our communities to help revitalize our neighbourhoods," said Family Services and Housing Minister Christine Melnick, who is also minister responsible for the Manitoba Housing and Renewal Corporation (MHRC). "This initiative builds on other housing programs with our municipal and federal partners that have seen close to $72 million for the repair, renovation and construction of more than 2,900 units of quality housing for low- and moderate-income people in Winnipeg since 2000."

Earlier this month, the minister introduced legislation that would direct the profits from suburban residential development on lands owned by MHRC to upgrade housing in areas of need.

The province is also providing grants of up to $25,000 for proposal development under this new innovative housing revitalization program.

Profits of approximately $1 million from the Royalwood subdivision in Winnipeg are now available for improvements in the city’s areas of need. All profits from the province’s other major land developments will also be redirected toward housing revitalization.

Manitoba’s growing economy has increased the need for adequate housing and the province is committed to helping Manitobans access a wide choice of quality, affordable housing while supporting healthy communities.  Manitoba Family Services and Housing, through MHRC, has a number of significant land holdings in the city, such as Waverley West in southwest Winnipeg, to help create more housing.

Once the project concepts from selected applicants are at the preliminary design stage, the proposals will be reviewed and considered for support from the profits from the Royalwood development. The new program will support the development of new housing that is unique or inventive for Winnipeg’s older neighbourhoods.

Interested groups can obtain a copy of the application guidelines from the Manitoba Housing and Renewal Corporation office at 203 - 280 Broadway or by calling 204-945-4985. Completed applications will be accepted until 4 p.m. CDT, Friday, June 16.

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