More of Kamloops’ back alleys are going to be turned into art galleries, thanks to more than $19,000 in provincial funding for a work experience project.

The City of Kamloops knows it has a labour shortage coming, and work is underway to help local businesses meet the future demand for workers.

Nearly 35,000 new jobs are expected in Kamloops and the regional districts of Thompson-Nicola and Fraser-Fort George by 2025, according to a regional labour market study released.

Local back alleys are getting another splash of colour as two people get work experience painting three murals in downtown Kamloops, thanks to more than $19,000 in government funding.

Up to 24 people will be trained as dietary aides and help ensure people in long-term care facilities receive the nutrition they need to stay healthy, thanks to $132,000 in government funding.

Kamloops and Revelstoke are launching partnerships with the B.C. government to study what's needed in the workforce in their respective communities over the next five-plus years.

Youth with developmental disabilities between the ages of 16 and 24 years can get help during the transition to adulthood through a new service model launched in the Kamloops and Merritt areas last fall.

The Government of B.C. is partnering with the Thompson-Nicola Regional District to deliver a water conservation strategy and map the water and sewer systems of 12 rural communities, while providing two people with work experience.