A Colwood facility that helps troubled Canadian veterans got a welcome funding boost from the federal government on Tuesday.

In a ceremony at the Royal Canadian Legion on Gorge Road East in Victoria, minister of state for seniors Alice Wong announced $258,000 for Cockrell House. The five townhouse units can house 11 people. Since it opened with little fanfare in 2009, the facility has helped more than two dozen veterans get back on their feet. Many had found themselves homeless after struggling with depression or post traumatic stress disorder linked to their experience in war zones or places devastated by natural disasters.

Cockrell Home has earned acclaim from government for its success rate but until Tuesday there was little official support in the way of funding. The money is part of a pilot project that has $1.9 million going to four centres across Canada. The goal is help veterans who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.

In a statement issued Tuesday, Cockrell House director Angus Stanfield said the facility is happy to be working with the other centres.

"Cockrell House is proud to be a part of this important project. At Cockrell House, we support 11 of our local veterans in overcoming many challenges. Offering a home and supports with other veterans is the foundation for new beginnings."

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