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After announcing a forced early closure for Inn From the Cold's temporary winter shelter, the shelter is back on track with some emergency funding.
Inn From the Cold announced on February 20th that they would have to cancel overnight services because of a lack of government funding. The shelter has 35 beds for those needing shelter over the winter months, as well as warm meals and shower and laundry facilities.
When local MLAs Norm Letnick and Steve Thomson heard that the shelter was forced to close early, they took action. After speaking to the Minister Responsible for Housing Rich Coleman, the MLAs procured an extra $22,000 to keep Inn From the Cold open until the end of March. This money is one-time, emergency funding provided by BC Housing, a branch of the provincial government. Staff from BC Housing will also be meeting with the shelter to discuss funding for the Chandler Housing program.
“I've been volunteering there for many, many years since it first started as part of the faith community's outreach program back at least 10 years,” said Letnick. “It's doing good work for people in the community that find themselves needing a warm meal, shower, or lodging facilities when it gets cold outside.”
"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," said Thomson.
(Photo Credit: Inn From the Cold)
The chairman of the board for Inn From the Cold Mark Dixon extended his heartfelt thanks and said this funding will help people “start their personal journey from homelessness to recovery and independence.”
“We aren't out of the woods yet, so please keep contacting your local officials,” said Inn From the Cold in a Facebook post. “This exciting news is a testament of the power of your voice, and shows that the government does care about what you think about the health of your community.”
“Let’s keep up this momentum and encourage further, long-term support of our valuable organization and programs!”
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