BC Liquor Store customers are invited to support alcohol-free events for graduating high school students by donating $1 or more at the cash register to the Support Dry Grad campaign between Feb. 24 and March 31, 2014.

Contributions by BC Liquor Store customers and staff top up funds raised by parents, students and teachers who work throughout the year raising funds for alcohol-free grad celebrations. Customers receive a small token of appreciation in recognition of their donation to the Support Dry Grad campaign.

More than 250 high schools in 56 school districts are participating in the campaign this year. All Support Dry Grad donations from stores go to their local school district, which, in turn, provides the funding to the local grad committees.

Last year, BC Liquor Stores customers and staff donated more than $459,000 to help graduating students celebrate at events such as ski trips, overnight field trips and boat cruises.

For more than a decade, the Support Dry Grad campaign in BC Liquor Stores has been an integral part of the Liquor Distribution Branch's efforts to prevent underage drinking and promote zero consumption by minors. So far, the campaign has raised a total of more than $4.9 million.

Quotes:

Attorney General and Minister of Justice Suzanne Anton -

"High school graduation is a major milestone in a person's life, and the Province strongly supports dry grad activities to help students celebrate this special occasion in a safe, fun and alcohol-free environment."

"BC Liquor Stores customers can feel good knowing that every dollar raised in their community will benefit the graduates in their community."

BC Liquor Distribution Branch general manager & chief executive officer Blain Lawson -

"The Support Dry Grad campaign is a cornerstone of the Liquor Distribution Branch's commitment to corporate social responsibility, and one that has a great impact in local communities. With the help of our customers and staff over the past 14 years, we are very proud to have helped thousands of local grads celebrate in a safe and memorable way."

Learn More:

About the Support Dry Grad campaign: http://www.bcldb.com/corporate-social-responsibility/community-fundraising/support-dry-grad

Dry Grad Guidebook for B.C.: http://www.healthyschoolsbc.ca/program/333/dry-grad-guidebook-for-bc

Media Contact:

April Kemick
Manager, Communications
BC Liquor Distribution Branch
604 252-3034