Improving living conditions for people with low incomes: budget increased to $283 million

Lévis, January 24, 2018. – The Minister responsible for Consumer Protection and for Housing, Lise Thériault, and the Minister of Employment and Social Solidarity, François Blais, have elaborated on the housing investments promised as part of the 2017-2023 Government Action Plan to Foster Economic Inclusion and Social Participation, unveiled in December by Minister Blais.

Today’s announcements are as follows:

• An additional $38.8 million has been allocated to finish construction on the 7,000 affordable accommodations that were already planned. This is in addition to the $226.4 million for the construction of 3,000 accommodations that was announced in the last government budget, as part of the AccèsLogis Québec Program.
• A new financial commitment of $2.3 million over four years has been announced for the implementation of projects that encourage social participation and autonomy for people living in social housing.

Thanks to this additional investment, thousands of low- and modest-income households will be able to benefit from short-term, good-quality affordable housing.

Moreover, in the last budget, $16.3 million was announced to fund the Renovation Québec Program, which offers financial support for municipalities of all sizes that want to renovate housing in rundown residential areas.

Quotes:

These important investments in housing are proof that the government has the improvement of living conditions for all Quebecers at heart, particularly for those who are most vulnerable. Access to affordable housing is an essential element of the fight against poverty and social exclusion. I am proud of the actions that we have announced today. They will help improve the quality of life of many citizens.

– Lise Thériault, Minister responsible for Consumer Protection and for Housing

We know that having access to adequate affordable housing is one of the determining factors in the fight against poverty and social exclusion. These investments in housing will have a positive effect on the financial situations of low-income households. The 2017-2023 Government Action Plan to Foster Economic Inclusion and Social Participation aims to make Quebec a fairer place. The measures announced today will contribute to meeting that objective.

– François Blais, Minister of Employment and Social Solidarity

Key fact:

• The 2017-2023 Government Action Plan to Foster Economic Inclusion and Social Participation, which totals an investment of almost $3 billion, aims to lift 100,000 people out of poverty. https://www.mess.gouv.qc.ca/publications/pdf/ADMIN_plan_action_2017-2023.pdf

About the Société d’habitation du Québec

The SHQ’s mission is to help citizens access better living conditions. Through its many partners and programs, the SHQ has helped over 231,000 Quebec households. For more information on the SHQ’s programs and services, to find out more about its activities and achievements, or for housing advice, go to www.habitation.gouv.qc.ca.