VICTORIA – B.C. non-profit organizations dedicated to public safety received over $5.7 million in the most recent round of community gaming grants funded by the Government of British Columbia, said Community, Sport and Cultural Development Minister Peter Fassbender today.

Public safety community gaming grants help support the important work of non-profit organizations throughout the province that provide a range of services and educational programs to protect the safety of British Columbians in their local communities. Eligible organizations include: volunteer fire departments, search and rescue groups, crime stoppers associations, marine rescue societies and community justice centres.

Examples of organizations receiving public safety grants include:

• Mid-Island Air Search and Rescue Society (Parksville) – $7,500
• Penticton Safety Village Society – $20,000
• Canadian Avalanche Rescue Dog Association (Fernie) – $70,000
• Prince George Regional Highway Rescue Society – $60,000
• Abbotsford Restorative Justice and Advocacy Association – $70,000

For a full list of public safety grant recipients, visit: http://ow.ly/YdPzd

Quotes:

Community, Sport and Cultural Development Minister Peter Fassbender –

“The safety of British Columbians is a top priority. We are proud to provide more than $5.7 million in gaming grants to support the crucial work of non-profit organizations that deliver a range of protective services as well as a variety of educational and training programs for their volunteers – to help ensure assistance is available when residents need it most.”

Public Safety Minister and Solicitor General Mike Morris –

“It is gratifying to see so many organizations in B.C.’s public safety sector benefit from community gaming grants. These not-for-profit groups play such a central role in providing important, locally-based services that strengthen safety measures, tools and resources in our communities.”

Minister of State for Emergency Preparedness Naomi Yamamoto –

“The presence of these organizations in our communities is valuable. The public safety services they provide protect the lives of British Columbians and their families – and create peace of mind in times of crisis. Once again, we are pleased to support this vital work in communities across B.C. through the Province’s community gaming grants.”

Quick Facts:

• In 2012, Premier Christy Clark increased the annual base budget for gaming grants by $15 million to $135 million per year into the future.
• Every year, the B.C. government approves $135 million in gaming grants benefiting over 5,000 local organizations representing virtually every community in the province.
• Eligibility for community gaming grants includes agricultural fairs, local festivals and celebrations, heritage associations and museums, arts and culture, sports, environmental organizations, human and social services, public safety, parent advisory councils and district parent advisory councils.

Learn More:

For information on how to apply for a B.C. community gaming grant, visit: https://www.gaming.gov.bc.ca/grants/index.htm