A new program aimed at helping seniors live independently in their own homes is getting closer to its official launch.

The Better at Home program will be delivered by the Kamloops and District Seniors Outreach Services Society. It is funded by the provincial government and managed by United Way of the Lower Mainland.

The society will get $100,000 a year for the next three years to run non-medical services to support seniors living in their own homes. The services range from friendly visits and housekeeping tasks to driving seniors to doctors appointments.

"We're really excited about it," said Seniors Outreach Society's executive director Suzan Goguen.

"Just based on the work that we're doing with seniors, it's desperately needed in the community."

Goguen's organization is hoping to have a program co-ordinator in place by the end of the month. It's accepting applications until Jan. 24 via email. Details can be found at www.kamseniorsoutreach.ca.

Kamloops is one of the first communities to get the Better at Home program, which will be rolled out to 60 B.C. communities over time.

Seniors Outreach Society has already started a list of seniors who would like to be helped by the program.

Anyone interested in learning more can contact the organization at 250-828-0600 or info@kamseniorsoutreach.ca">info@kamseniorsoutreach.ca.

Goguen expects the Better at Home program to be launched in early February.