News Release

SAINT JOHN (GNB) – The provincial and federal governments announced today an investment of $1.8 million in Victoria Commons, a new affordable housing project in Saint John that will provide 12 units with rent supplements to low-income women with and without children.

“Our government believes New Brunswickers deserve access to an affordable, safe, suitable and comfortable home within an inclusive community,” said Social Development Minister Bruce Fitch. “It is a key component of our efforts to develop vibrant and sustainable communities. That is why we are pleased to invest in this affordable housing project in Saint John and to provide new rent-supplemented units, including accessible units, for the benefit of low-income women with and without children, for the next 20 years.”

The project is on Victoria Street and is being developed by the Unified Saint John Housing Co-operative. The provincial government is providing a forgivable loan of $480,000 and rent supplements for 12 of the 14 units to ensure those tenants do not pay more than 30 per cent of their total household income in rent. The federal government is providing $1.33 million through the National Housing Strategy’s National Housing Co-investment Fund.

“Every Canadian deserves a safe and affordable place to call home,” said Families, Children and Social Development Minister Ahmed Hussen, who is also minister Responsible for the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation. “Through the National Housing Co-Investment Fund, our government is investing in affordable housing here in Saint John and across Canada to help create jobs and improve the quality of life for those who need it most. Thanks to today’s announcement, low-income individuals and families in Saint John now have access to affordable homes where they can build a promising future for themselves. This is the National Housing Strategy in action.”

Unified Saint John Housing Co-operative’s three-storey building is designed to achieve a minimum of 25.02 per cent decrease in energy intensity and 33.08 per cent decrease in greenhouse gas emissions relative to the requirements of the 2015 National Energy Code for Buildings or the 2015 National Building Code.

“This project is a great example of momentum that builds when a group of people with similar interests get together to work towards the same goal,” said Lynn Wood, president of the co-op’s board of directors. “The impact that Unified Saint John Housing Co-op, along with their partners, have had in this neighbourhood is lasting. This 14-unit building is the jewel that will anchor neighbourhood revitalization for years to come.”