A total of $540,692 has been donated by BC Liquor Stores' customers to support high schools throughout the province that are planning alcohol-free graduation events.

The money collected will be used by local high school dry grad committees to plan alcohol-free graduation events and activities such as boat cruises, ski trips and dances. The contributions by liquor store customers supplement funds raised by parents, students and teachers who volunteer year-round to raise funds for dry grads.

Quote:

Minister Rich Coleman -

"It's great to see people across B.C. giving a little bit extra back to their communities for alcohol-free grad events. The money raised will help students celebrate one of life's milestones safely and responsibly."

Quick Facts:

• From Feb. 25 to March 31, BC Liquor Stores' customers throughout the province were asked if they would like to support dry grad celebrations in their communities by donating one dollar.

• This year, 55 school districts participated in the campaign, and 100 per cent of the donations collected are distributed to high schools hosting dry grad events.

• The Fort Street Signature Store in Victoria raised the highest amount this year, with a total of $12,509, followed by the Fort St. John store with $12,290 and the Westshore Signature Store in Langford, which raised $12,168.

• Since the Liquor Distribution Branch's first annual Support Dry Grad campaign in 2001, more than $4.4 million has been donated by government liquor store customers for alcohol-free high school graduation events in communities throughout British Columbia.

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

• Customers were given chocolates in recognition of their donation to the Dry Grad Campaign.

Media Contact:

Sandra Steilo
Ministry of Energy and Mines
250 952-0617