The B.C. government is providing a shorter, simpler application form for local organizations throughout the province re-applying for community gaming grants, Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development Bill Bennett announced today.

Gaming Policy and Enforcement Branch is implementing the new application form in response to the Community Gaming Grant Review released last January. Based on public input, the review made recommendations to help non-profit organizations continue to provide community-based services that benefit families, citizens and local economies throughout British Columbia.

Feedback from community groups reviewing the new application has been favourable, citing the straightforward, concise format. Again this year, the B.C. government is providing $135 million for community gaming grants shared by thousands of local organizations representing every region of the province.

For an email link to request the new application from Gaming Policy and Enforcement Branch, please visit: www.pssg.gov.bc.ca/gaming

Quotes:

Bill Bennett, Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development -

"British Columbians said what they wanted from community gaming grants and we listened. Streamlining the application process is one step. This year we also increased the annual grant funding and restored eligibility to prior levels. Gaming grants help community organizations make local services available and affordable for families across British Columbia."

Susan Marsden, executive director, BC Association for Charitable Gaming -

"Our organization would like to thank Premier Christy Clark and Minister Bill Bennett for continuing to address the concerns of non-profits and charities across British Columbia. These concerns were expressed in the Community Gaming Grant Review. Community organizations will use the thousands of hours in staff time saved by the more streamlined application process to improve the quality of life for B.C. citizens. Our membership has been unanimous in their expression of approval and appreciation for this initiative."

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:

Please use the following email link to request the new application form: Gaming.Branch@gov.bc.ca

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

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

Contact:

Matt Gordon
Communications Director
Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development
250 953-3677