BELLINGHAM, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – A local organization is receiving a state grant to support low-income housing in Bellingham.

The Opportunity Council’s Dorothy Place was awarded $1 million by the state Department of Commerce (DOC) last week. The DOC said it was part of nearly $20 million in grants given out to preserve affordable housing units in some of the state’s most vulnerable populations.

Dorothy Place is a secure 22-unit facility operated by the Opportunity Council that offers housing for families and individuals who have experienced domestic violence. It also provides support services including case management, vocational classes and goal setting. Funds from the grant will go towards repairs and maintenance to preserve the facility.

Dorothy Place was one of six projects that were awarded the largest funding amount of $1 million and the only grant recipient in Whatcom County. Two projects in Skagit County, one in La Conner and one in Sedro Woolley, received a combined $1 million to repair 33 affordable housing units. The DOC released a full list of the grant recipients.