Kelowna will receive $ 100,000 to provide transitional services to those affected by the mill’s permanent closure.
The announcement came on Monday morning from Doug Donaldson, BC’s Minister for Forests, Land, Natural Resources and Rural Development.
“The challenges facing inner forest communities are unprecedented, so we source these resources where they are most needed,” said Donaldson.
The investments will be given directly to the local government in each community and will be used to provide everything from employment workshops and training to counseling services.
As of January 8, 2020, the Tolko Mill in Kelowna will be permanently shut down, leaving 127 officially unemployed despite having been unemployed for several months.
In addition to Kelowna, 11 other inland communities will receive a boost for a total of $ 875,000 offered through the Community Support Grants Program (CSGP).
The funds are gradually distributed to the affected communities depending on current needs and the situation.
Those with permanent mill closings are eligible for $ 100,000, perpetual closings are eligible for $ 75,000, and those with permanent shift reductions are eligible for $ 50,000.
Other communities receiving a boost include: Clinton, Clearwater, Quesnel ($ 100,000), Fort St. James, Fort. St. John, Mackenzie, 100 Mile House, and the East Kootenay Area B ($ 75,000) district Fraser Fort George Area C and Merritt ($ 50,000)
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