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