Saturday, March 13, 2010

Housing Co-op Gets Federal Grant

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Owen Sound
by Maggie Clegg    

Owen Sound's only housing co-operative is receiving a federal grant.

The money is part of one billion dollars for social housing renovations and retrofits.

The Ainslie Wood Housing Co-operative will get over 384 thousand dollars through Canada's Economic Action Plan.

Ainslie Wood Co-op President Donna Smith says the money has already been used to install new siding, windows, and insulation at their 32 units on 15th Street East.

Bruce Grey Owen Sound MP Larry Miller made the funding announcement Friday on behalf of Diane Finley, the Minister responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC).

Miller says the project will not only improve the quality of life of the co-op's residents, but will also be good for the environment by reducing energy costs.

Judy Binder is the South Western Ontario District Manager for the CMHC.

She says the Ainslie Wood Co-op is extremely important to Owen Sound because it provides 32 families with safe, affordable housing in an environment where they can participate as active members of their board.

Binder says Owen Sound's only housing co-operative was built in 1985 and this is the perfect time to spruce up the facility, ensure the longevity of the buildings, and reduce heating costs for the occupants.

Smith agrees, saying the funding not only makes the co-op more energy efficient but also ensures the homes will be available for future generations.