Today, Minister Rich Coleman, MLA for Fort Langley-Aldergrove, launched this year's Support Dry Grad fundraising campaign at R.E. Mountain Secondary school in Langley.

From Feb. 25 until March 31, BC Liquor Stores customers can donate $1 or more to Support Dry Grad celebrations in their communities. The money collected is used by local high school Dry Grad planning committees to plan alcohol-free high school graduation events and activities such as boat cruises, ski trips and dances.

This year, 55 school districts are participating in the campaign. The contributions by liquor store customers top up funds raised by parents, students and teachers who work all year to raise funds for dry graduation activities. Last year, BC Liquor Stores customers throughout the province donated a total of $512,604 in support of Dry Grad events, including contributions of $16,900 by Langley residents to support events in School District 35.

Quotes:

Minister Rich Coleman -

"For the past 12 years, BC Liquor Stores customers and employees have raised funds to encourage high school students across British Columbia to celebrate grad in a safe, responsible manner. One hundred per cent of all donated Support Dry Grad funds go back to local communities."

Mary Polak, MLA for

"I am pleased to see the students and citizens of Langley continue their support of the BC Liquor Stores' Dry Grad initiative. This award-winning campaign helps students to celebrate one of life's milestones in a safe, responsible manner."

Principal Magdy Ghobrial, R.E. Mountain Secondary school -

"I am encouraged by the student and parent support and commitment to putting on Dry Grad celebrations at our school. Each year, parents and students work together, fundraising and planning events to help make their graduation memorable and safe. The contributions made by BC Liquor Stores' customers provide much-needed funding to help make these events a success."

Quick Facts:

• Now in its 12th year, BC Liquor Stores' award-winning Support Dry Grad campaign has raised over $3.9 million toward alcohol-free graduation events.

• The annual Support Dry Grad campaign is part of BC Liquor Stores' corporate social responsibility program. This program promotes the responsible use of beverage alcohol - a program that includes the prevention of underage drinking and promotion of zero consumption for minors.

• Chocolates are given to customers in recognition of their donation to the Dry Grad Campaign.

Media contact:

Sandra Steilo
Ministry of Energy and Mines
250 952-0617