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Kelowna  

Cash influx keeps doors open

A new influx of provincial funds has given the overnight shelter at Inn from the Cold new life.

Last week the shelter shared the disappointing news that a lack of funding was forcing it to close its doors early.

In response the B.C. government has decided to provide one-time only funding assistance in the amount of $22,000, to allow the temporary winter shelter to remain open until the end of March.

"The province recognizes the needs of the homeless in Kelowna and this additional funding will enable Inn from the Cold to provide safe, warm accommodation and help their clients connect to community resources and permanent housing,” says Steve Thomson, MLA for Kelowna-Mission.

The shelter on Sutherland Avenue provides 35 beds for those that are homeless and other services including a warm meal, shower and laundry facilities.

"These 35 beds provide safe protection from the elements, and a helping hand to those in need in our community. The staff at Inn from the Cold also provide other helpful services that make a real difference in people's lives,” adds Norm Letnick, MLA for Kelowna-Lake Country.

The B.C. government recently provided $60,000 to Inn from the Cold to complete renovations at their Chandler Street House, an eight bed supportive-housing building for homeless men.

"It's with heartfelt thanks from our staff and volunteers that the Sutherland Avenue shelter will be able to remain open until March 31. We know that when vulnerable people who are homeless are treated with compassion and dignity, and have their basic needs for shelter and warmth met, they can then start their personal journey from homelessness to recovery and independence,” says Mark Dixon, chairman of the board, Inn from the Cold.



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