Ninety-one community groups across B.C. are sharing $2,612,000 in gaming grants from the provincial government in the first intake of fiscal year 2012-13, Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development Ida Chong announced today.

The full list of approved gaming grants is available at: www.pssg.gov.bc.ca/gaming

Forty-one sports groups, 38 arts and culture organizations and 12 agricultural fairs received grants varying from under $5,000 up to $160,000. Recipients represent communities throughout British Columbia. The Province will continue distributing gaming grants throughout the current fiscal year, totalling $135 million by March 31, 2013.

Quotes:

Ida Chong, Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development -

"Gaming grants help community groups organize events and provide programs and services that build quality of life and support local economies. The latest grant distribution supports events significant in B.C. and beyond, including the Vancouver International Children's Festival, the Prince George Exhibition and the Abbotsford Agrifair."

"I want to thank local organizations and their many volunteers throughout the province. These British Columbians help make their communities great places to live, work, invest and visit."

Quick Facts:

• In January 2012, Premier Christy Clark increased the annual base budget for gaming grants by $15 million to $135 million per year into the future.

• 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.

• During 2011-12, approximately 5,300 community groups shared $135 million.

Learn More:

Check out the provincial government's role in supporting sports and arts and culture through the Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development at: http://www.gov.bc.ca/cscd

Contact:

Jeff Rud
Communications Director
Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development
250 953-3677