Eligible public safety non-profit organizations can apply now for a B.C. community gaming grant. The application deadline is Aug. 31, 2014, Community, Sport and Cultural Development Minister Coralee Oakes said today.

For information on how to apply for a community gaming grant, visit: https://www.gaming.gov.bc.ca/grants/index.htm

Every year, the Government of British Columbia approves $135 million in community gaming grants distributed among specific sectors, including public safety. In 2013-14, about 140 eligible public safety organizations shared $6,990,355 in approved grants.

Public safety groups provide diverse services in communities throughout British Columbia, while sharing a common commitment to protect people. Eligible organizations include volunteer fire departments, search and rescue groups, crime stoppers associations, marine rescue societies, amateur radio clubs, snowmobile clubs and community justice centres.

Organizations supported through public safety gaming grants in 2013-14 include:

• $250,000 - British Columbia Search and Rescue Association, New Westminster
• $70,000 - Abbotsford Restorative Justice and Advocacy Association
• $57,000 - Juan de Fuca Marine Rescue Society, Sooke
• $52,000 - Horsefly Volunteer Fire Department
• $25,000 - Big Lake Community Association, Big White
• $15,000 - Bulkley Valley Amateur Radio Society, Smithers

For a list of all 2013-14 gaming grant recipients, including public safety groups, visit: http://ow.ly/yjQ9f

Quotes:

Community, Sport and Cultural Development Minister Coralee Oakes -

“Throughout British Columbia, thousands of volunteers strive to learn the skills needed to help people in distress, and they put themselves in great danger to help others.  We recognize and thank these hardworking British Columbians and their dedication to supporting public safety in our province. Funding from community gaming grants helps support the important services provided by public safety non-profit organizations.”

Attorney General and Minister of Justice Suzanne Anton -

“It is very rewarding to see the community safety grants going to so many deserving organizations throughout B.C. These groups and their dedicated volunteers are key public-safety partners providing important, locally based services and peace of mind to British Columbians. Because of them, people around our province can feel confident knowing that urgent help is available, whenever it is needed.”

Learn More:

Check out the Government of British Columbia’s role in supporting sport, arts and culture through the Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development at: http://www.gov.bc.ca/cscd

Media Contact:

Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development
250 953-3677