More than $12 million in new funding for public safety and environment programs will support not-for-profit organizations that are helping make life better for people throughout B.C.

“I recognize and appreciate the work that local non-profits do for communities throughout the province. Non-profits deliver vital programming that directly supports people throughout B.C. and we want to ensure they have the resources to continue,” said Anne Kang, Minister of Municipal Affairs. “Our government is committed to continued strong partnerships. The grants that we are announcing today will support 281 organizations across the province that will help make B.C. a stronger, healthier and more sustainable place to work, live and play.”

Community Gaming Grants will provide 131 not-for-profit organizations in the public-safety sector with a total of $6.8 million. Funding will support programs that address restorative justice, firefighting, search and rescue, emergency preparedness and community safety.

Specific examples of funded programs include:

• search dog team training in Powell River;
• traffic control, distracted driving, speed watch and community safety watch in Surrey; and
• firefighter training and equipment program in Mansons Landing.

“Our small community is incredibly grateful for the generous support we have received from the Province of B.C.,” said Elijah McKenty, fire chief, Cortes Island. “The grants we have received over past years have made a very important contribution to our operational capacity. The current funding of $100,000 for equipment and training will make a significant impact on our ability to respond to emergencies and keep our residents safe. We look forward to continuing our partnership with the Province to ensure the safety of our community.”

Grants will support a further 149 not-for-profit organizations in the environment sector with $5.9 million for animal protection, conservation and environmental awareness programs. Examples include:

• animal welfare program at the Prince George Humane Society;
• invasive species education and awareness in Williams Lake; and
• six aquatic education and protection programs in Vancouver, including a mobile Sea Dome interactive experience and shoreline cleanup program.

“As a global leader in ocean research and conservation, with deep roots in B.C., we inspire and empower millions around the world to join us in taking action for the ocean, starting right here in our home province of British Columbia,” said Lasse Gustavsson, president and CEO, Ocean Wise. “Our work wouldn’t be possible without funding from B.C.’s Community Gaming Grants program. Thanks to this valuable support, we can protect and restore the ocean alongside British Columbians through popular programs like our travelling Sea Dome for climate change education, volunteer-led Ocean Wise shoreline cleanups, citizen science-based Ocean Wise Sightings Network for whale health, and our sustainable seafood program.”

Community Gaming Grants provide $140 million per year from gaming revenue to support nearly 5,000 not-for-profit organizations that deliver services to people in B.C. communities.

To view the full list of environment and public safety grant recipients, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/files/CGG_Public_Safety_and_Enviroment_Sectors.pdf

Quick Facts:

• Every year, commercial gaming revenue funds essential government programs and services in B.C. communities.
• In addition to public safety and environmental conservation, Community Gaming Grants fund arts and culture, sport, human and social services, and parent and district parent advisory councils in B.C. schools.
• Each year, eligible organizations can apply for one of the six sectors of Community Gaming Grants, as well as a capital project grant.

Learn More:

For information about Community Gaming Grants, visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/sports-culture/gambling-fundraising/gaming-grants/community-gaming-grants