April 2, 2009
Housing Fund Grant of $105,000 for Langley

LANGLEY – The Province is providing a $105,000 grant from the Housing Endowment Fund (HEF) for an innovative project in Langley, local MLAs Rich Coleman and Mary Polak announced today.

“The endowment fund is a great financial resource that can help out some unique projects to set the stage for solutions and innovation in the housing sector,” said Coleman, MLA for Fort Langley-Aldergrove and Minister of Housing and Social Development. “That’s exactly what this grant in Langley is going toward, and the outcome of this project could be applied widely throughout the province."

“This project helps support the Province’s plan to combat climate change by encouraging the use of innovative, green building techniques in B.C.,” said Polak, MLA for Langley.

Ursus Homes is receiving $105,000 to develop a prototype sustainable ‘green’ house, built in Langley, using local materials and a European closed-panel system. Ursus plans to adapt the closed panel design for B.C.’s climate and the HEF funding will be used to develop the research, plans and documentation for the project. The grant is one of 18 HEF grants totalling $3.6 million being allocated today in communities across the province.

“We think this is an excellent opportunity for the private sector to work with the Province to address questions about cost, sustainability and energy efficiency in the housing industry right now,” said Ursus's Bob Brash. “We think there are viable solutions out there, and through this work we can help to identify them.”

The $250-million Housing Endowment Fund was established in the 2007 Provincial Budget. The fund generates investment revenue, which is used to fund new ideas and support innovative housing solutions that meet the diverse housing needs of British Columbians. To date, more than $14 million has been awarded to 39 projects.

Through Housing Matters BC, the total provincial contribution to affordable housing and shelter in Budget 2009 is $469 million, more than four times as much as in 2001. This consists of an operating contribution of $319 million, plus a capital contribution of $150 million.

‘Breaking the Cycle of Homelessness’ is a website providing a comprehensive and detailed look at provincial programs and services to address homelessness. Visit www.bchousing.org/breakingthecycle for more information.

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