Photo: The Bridge

Operators of The Bridge Youth and Family Services say Kelowna and the Central Okanagan is woefully underserved when it comes to addiction and recovery services.

They claim they could meet that demand in just two months, if the province would loosen the purse strings and make the investment needed in the region.

Celine Thompson, executive director of The Bridge, says the Central Okanagan is lagging behind the rest of the province.

Speaking before the Select Standing Committee on Finance and Government Services, Thompson showed how they could use current infrastructure and expertise to expand services within 60 days.

She says the Central Okanagan has the solutions, but lacks the financial resources.

An investment by the province would increase both access and responsiveness of the system to get people the help they need in an appropriate environment.

Thompson says The Bridge, a non-profit organization, offers three areas which, with the proper investment would be able to provide care to people when, and where they need it.

These include live-in treatment for youth under 19 who struggle with substance abuse, facility-based treatment for adults and withdrawal management services.