The province has approved $1.5 million for building 18 new units of affordable rental housing for low-income adults and people with special needs in 100 Mile House.
The Canadian Mental Health Association - South Cariboo Branch (CMHA-SC) applied for this capital funding after a call for Expressions of Interest (EOI) from the Provincial Investment in Affordable Housing program in April 2016.
CMHA-SC executive director Susann Collins says the local branch is "thrilled" about being awarded $1.5 million.
"We are happy to have this opportunity to bring more affordable housing to our community."
South Cariboo Poverty Reduction Coalition co-chair Lisa de Paoli says this is great news to help alleviate the "huge need" for more affordable, all-new rental units in the 100 Mile House community.
"Particularly for families, for individuals, and for anyone with special needs, this is just fantastic that these will be added to the rental stock that we have in 100 Mile. It's for brand new, affordable rental housing that is clean and will last in the long term."
She also gives her big thanks to the CMHA-SC for its foresight and initiative in applying for this funding.
BC Housing will work with the group to fully develop the project plans and ensure the proper rezoning and consultation is considered and confirmed before construction.
The Ministry of Natural Gas Development and Responsible for Housing announced the funding approval on April 7, with money based on the province's call for EOI proposals a year ago.
This local capital improvement for low-income housing is funded under a $355-million government investment announced by BC Premier Christy Clark in Feb. 2016 to create more than 2,000 new, affordable rental housing units throughout B.C.