Abbeyfield seizes opportunity to to build homes

24 November 2006

Abbeyfield seizes opportunity to get support to build homes

Abbeyfield New Zealand Ltd has seized the opportunity offered by the Housing Innovation Fund to provide affordable housing for older people.

Over the past three years Abbeyfield has secured $3,665,000 in housing innovation funding to help build three properties – one in Hamilton, Auckland, Takaka.

The aim of the fund is to encourage community groups and organisations to get more involved in providing social housing to people, Paula Snowden, Housing New Zealand General Manager Housing Innovations said.

“Abbeyfield has certainly done that,” Ms Snowden said.

“And most importantly, considering our ageing population, it is older people who are reaping the benefits. Abbeyfield is providing housing that allows older people to retain their independence, but the support of an affordable, family-style environment.“

Last financial year the Corporation approved $15.14 million in Housing Innovation Fund loans to local authorities and community-based organisations. The loans were to 13 community-based organisations and five local government authorities. The developments provided 220 new housing units comprising 271 bedrooms.

A further $2.33 million was provided in conditional grants to community-based organisations and $2.78 million in capacity-building grants for community-based organisations and local authorities.

ENDS

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