Spokane-based nonprofit Cancer Can’t has been awarded $1.53 million in state appropriations through the recently approved Washington state budget.

The funding will go toward the organization’s planned 20-unit lodging facility on the 1400 block of west Mallon Avenue, just north of Kendall Yards.

“This funding will allow us to get closer to breaking ground on a much-needed sanctuary space and provide expanded, comfortable lodging for those traveling to Spokane for cancer treatment,” says Becky Van Keulen, co-founder and president of Cancer Can’t, in a press release.

With the additional $1.53 million, Cancer Can’t has now accumulated about 80% of the estimated $6 million total project cost.

Van Keulen says her hope is for construction to begin in the fall.

Cancer Can’t offers free, short-term housing for out-of-town cancer patients and their families. Currently, the nonprofit assists patients with hotel accommodations.

The proposed lodging facility will allow Cancer Can’t to provide longer-term housing options than it can through hotels.

Access to longer-term housing is especially beneficial for patients undergoing radiation treatments, which typically take weeks to complete, Van Keulen says.

Cancer Can’t also has a grant program, through which patients can receive various forms of financial support, and operates a transportation program for patients who need help getting to and from treatments.

Cancer Can’t is continuing to pursue additional funding sources, including through its annual Cancer Can’t Black & White Gala, a silent auction fundraiser that will take place Sept. 13 at the Davenport Grand hotel.