BC Liquor Stores are once again encouraging customers to support the annual Support Dry Grad Campaign, an initiative that raises funds for public and independent schools to host safe, alcohol-free celebration events for graduating high school students.

Chocolates are being sold in stores for $1 with all the proceeds going directly to schools in the local community. The campaign runs until March 31 at which time the money is divided up, based on the number of graduating students in each school.

Almost $365,000 was raised last year for dry grad events. Some of the activities included:

• Camping and watersport weekend
• Banquet and social
• Vancouver Harbour cruise
• Chaperoned dance with DJ
• Event at the Vancouver Aquarium
• Supervised games at Burnaby 8 Rinks

This year, 55 public school districts and 59 independent schools have applied for funding. All participating schools must sign an agreement that the money is only to be used toward graduation celebrations that are alcohol-free.

BC Liquor Stores’ Support Dry Grad campaign reinforces its commitment to corporate social responsibility, preventing underage drinking and giving back to the communities it serves.

Quotes:

Coralee Oakes, Minister of Small Business and Red Tape Reduction and Minister Responsible for the Liquor Distribution Branch –

“This is a great campaign because it not only celebrates the accomplishment of graduating from high school, but also promotes the importance of health and safety for youth. There are all kinds of ways to have fun, and for minors that has to be without alcohol.”

Blain Lawson, general manager and CEO, Liquor Distribution Branch –

“This is the 17th year that BC Liquor Stores have participated in the Support Dry Grad campaign and we are proud to assist graduating high-school students across the province to safely enjoy an important milestone in their lives.”

Quick Facts:

• BC Liquor Stores’ Support Dry Grad initiative has collected $6.2 million since 2001.
• 55 public school districts and 59 independent schools are participating this year.
• In the 2016 campaign:
  • more than 270 high schools participated
  • $364,296 was raised through chocolate sales

Learn More:

Read more about the BC Liquor Stores’ Support Dry Grad campaign: http://www.bcldb.com/corporate-social-responsibility/community-fundraising/support-dry-grad

For more information on talking to your kids about alcohol visit: www.AlcoholSenseBC.ca