The B.C. government is providing $25,000 through a community gaming grant to Quesnel Search and Rescue to support the services provided through this non-profit association, Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development Bill Bennett announced today.

The B.C. government currently provides $135 million for community gaming grants throughout the current fiscal year. These grants are shared by thousands of local organizations representing every region of the province. Eligibility for community gaming grants include 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. Recipients represent communities throughout British Columbia.

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

Quotes:

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

"Quesnel Search and Rescue provides the critical service of finding and assisting British Columbians in crisis. With this grant, the B.C. government is proud to support the work of this organization that is dedicated to the safety and well-being of British Columbians in their community."

Mary Sjostrom, Mayor of Quesnel -

"It's a top priority to ensure the protection and safety of our citizens. This community gaming grant will help the continuation of Quesnel's emergency services and support the work of the dedicated individuals who volunteer their time to this agency to assist British Columbians and their loved ones in times when they need it most."

Robert Zimmerman, president, Quesnel Search and Rescue -

"We are grateful to receive this gaming grant. These funds are invaluable in helping us cover the cost of providing services that aid and protect the lives of British Columbians and their families."

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.

• In 2011, Premier Christy Clark appointed Skip Triplett to conduct an independent review on the community gaming grants program. Following the recommendations of this review, the B.C. government restored eligibility for a number of organizations and streamlined the application process.

• During 2011-12, approximately 5,300 community groups were awarded gaming grants.

Learn More:

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