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(ADAM PROSKIW / iNFOnews.ca)

KAMLOOPS - More funding from the provincial government is going to affordable housing in Kamloops.

Two Kamloops organizations are receiving taxpayer dollars for two different housing projects. ASK Wellness is getting $6.5 million to put towards 42 new units, targeting the city’s homeless population or struggling with mental health challenges, according to a media release.

The organization’s executive director Bob Hughes says the investment will help return people to the workforce.

“The acquisition of these units will provide housing and supports to assist individuals ready and willing to return to the workforce or pursue educational opportunities,” Hughes says in the release. “These efforts complement ASK Wellness Society’s existing housing projects and provide the foundation for our clients to lead fulfilling, healthy lives.”

Lii Michif Otipemisiwak Family and Community Services are receiving $3.9 million for a specific site at 975 Singh St., which has been designated to house Aboriginal people. The 30 unit project will mix youth and people aging out of youth care along with Aboriginal elders.

Colleen Lucier, executive director of the service agency, is excited to start the innovative housing project.

“I want to express our gratitude for this incredible opportunity to contribute to reconciliation in the provincial child welfare system by increasing positive pathways for First Nations, Metis and Inuit youth leaving government care,” Lucier says in the release. “By creating culturally enriched housing for our youth, we will contribute to healing, wellness, and improved outcomes as our youth transition into adulthood."

The latest funding announcement comes a few days before the provincial election campaign officially starts on April 11 and just over a month before voters go to the polls May 9.

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