Skilled trades students in the Okanagan-Similkameen and Boundary school districts will benefit from a three-year, $15-million investment by the B.C. government to support youth trades programs with the purchase of new trades training equipment.

The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen is receiving a joint federal-provincial Small Communities Fund grant worth $6,606,224.

Building on the economic benefits and jobs created by getting to yes on major projects and provincial investments in infrastructure, Boundary-Similkameen MLA Linda Larson announced immediate investments and a long-term action plan outlined in B.C.’s rural economic development strategy that will create jobs and economic opportunities in Boundary-Similkameen.

The world is changing and B.C. students need to be ready to adapt to the careers of tomorrow. Students in the Okanagan Similkameen School District will be prepared thanks to $22,500 in provincial funding awarded to the district, helping to connect kids with opportunities in skilled trades and tech training. 

Families in the Okanagan-Similkameen school district will benefit from improved transportation services, thanks to $209,099 in funding under the new provincial Student Transportation Fund.

The on-time, on-budget completion of the new $200-million Okanagan Correctional Centre (OCC) puts a lock on more options to safely house inmates throughout British Columbia – and adds 300 jobs in the South Okanagan for correctional officers and support staff.

Boundary-Similkameen MLA Linda Larson, on behalf of Suzanne Anton, Attorney General and Minister of Justice, announced three new deputy sheriffs will be assigned to the Sheriff’s Office located at the Okanagan Correction Centre, and will assist in nearby courthouses until that time.

Under the BC Rural Dividend, the Province is providing $313,180 in grants to five communities in Boundary-Similkameen, MLA Linda Larson announced.

Later this month is your chance to take a stroll through B.C.’s new correctional centre just north of Oliver.

The South Okanagan is brimming with local flavours from a variety of companies, including the Howling Moon Cider House in Oliver and Bordertown Vineyards and Estate Winery in Osoyoos.