The Federal Government is investing more than $1.3 million into Okanagan-based women's organizations.
Both the Kelowna Women's Shelter and the Ki-Low-Na Friendship Society are among the five organizations set to receive funding.
The Kelowna Women's Shelter and its partners provide emergency accommodation for women and children leaving abusive situations. In a press release, the shelter says it will use the $166,595 grant to build housing by expanding and improving its shelter, programs, and services to women and their children fleeing violence and abuse.
"We are so grateful to the Government of Canada for this generous investment in our ongoing efforts to provide refuge and support for women and children who've experienced intimate partner violence and abuse." said the shelter's outgoing Executive Director, Karen Mason.
"After almost 40 years serving the community, this investment will allow us to further build organizational capacity as we expand our services to include more supported housing and other support and preventative education services."
The Ki-Low-Na Friendship Society will receive $250,000 in federal funding. The community organization plans to develop strategic partnerships with businesses, governments, and other community partners to support its ability to fund new and existing programs and infrastructure.
"There is no identity currently so imposed upon as an Indigenous female's identity. This most basic inherent right, and its proper reclamation, is the overarching goal towards highlighting our Indigenous sisters' needs." said Executive Director Edna Terbasket.
"We thank the federal government for their support to empower us to work diligently towards better futures for Indigenous women."