Social Housing Initiative provides a new home for a family in need

A middle aged mother with a medical condition and her carer son now have a place to call home, as a result of the Social Housing Initiative under the Nation Building – Economic Stimulus Plan.

Previously homeless, the mother and son had been sleeping on a mattress in a friend’s house, as ongoing medical costs and other financial burdens prevented them from renting a home in the private market.

A property in Elizabeth North, owned by Housing SA, was recently due to be sold because of its poor condition. However, using funding provided under the Social Housing Initiative, the 45 year old property has been extensively renovated and is now home to the family.

Major refurbishments were undertaken as part of the Repairs and Maintenance program, including the replacement of electrical wiring and fittings, kitchen, bathroom and laundry upgrades, interior and exterior plumbing, new roofing and flooring, and painting inside and out.

All windows were replaced, along with new fencing, landscaping and a new concrete driveway. A rainwater tank was also installed at the rear of the house.

Specialised furniture has been provided, and the home provides ample space, making life easier for the family.

Renovations to the property were undertaken by SA Building Pty Ltd. Work began in July and was completed late last month.

“SA Building has been involved in housing upgrades for the National Stimulus Package. Obviously all of this has seen financial benefits to the company but it has meant much more than that to us,” said the company’s representative.

“It has had a positive impact on our company in a number of ways. As we have had the privilege to win more than one tender, we have had several projects running simultaneously. This has meant that we have had to take on more tradespersons. These have ranged from carpenters to fencers to roofers to concreters.”

“Along with qualified tradespersons, we are currently in the process of taking on more than one apprentice. We will also be considering taking on more office staff in a trainee capacity,” SA Building representative said.

“On the whole the experience has been positive, making for good company morale.”

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