Dartmouth Non-Profit Housing Society Celebrates 25 Years

The Dartmouth Non-Profit Housing Society celebrated 25 years of service and a new plan for the future at a ceremony at its Ochterloney Street offices today, May 24.

The society has been quietly helping hundreds of low- and moderate-income families find affordable housing in Dartmouth for a quarter century with the help of an operating subsidy from the Department of Community Services.

"I am inspired by the work Dartmouth Non-Profit does to help struggling families," said Community Services Minister Judy Streatch, who was on hand for the celebration. "Few people appreciate the impact that the Dartmouth Non-Profit Housing Society has on the lives of so many people. Community Services is honoured to be able to work with the society to meet these needs."

The society assists eligible people by providing rent subsidies and has helped families gain access to affordable homes that meet their needs.

As part of the ceremony, the board signed a new operating agreement with Community Services. The agreement is the final step in a restructuring process that began in 2003 and helped the society simplify its funding and administrative processes. The society also presented Ms. Streatch with a cheque paying back an $80,000 emergency loan from the department in the late 1990s.

"There was a time when we weren't sure we would be able to keep up operations," said Chairman Bruce Hetherington. "Thanks to the restructuring plan we developed with Community Services we are financially secure and are better able to provide better quality housing for our tenants."

Three board members were also recognized at the ceremony for their dedication to the society. Bruce Hetherington, Condo Sarto and Garvie Samson received plaques marking their 25 years on the board.