Community gaming grant funding of over $500,000 will support over 50 human and social service community organizations in the Okanagan-Similkameen areas.
“I know from our recently held gaming forum firsthand of the important work that these volunteer-driven organizations perform in our communities,” said Penticton MLA Bill Barisoff. “These grants from gaming revenues help support that good work.”
Eligibility for the grants include programs that have been in operation for at least 12 months prior to application in the following five sectors: arts and culture, sports for youth and people with a disability, public safety, human and social services and parent advisory councils.
Organizations in Penticton, Summerland and Peachland will receive funding totaling $430,930.50. The Penticton and Area Women’s Centre was the biggest beneficiary of the funds with $80,000 for various programs they run. Groups such as the Knights of Columbus, Kinette Club, Kiwanis Club, Rotary Club, Fraternal Order of Eagles, Scouts and Ooknakane Friendship Centre all received grants.
Community gaming grant funding totaling $122,200 will go to support 12 human and social service community organizations in the Boundary-Similkameen area. The South Okanagan Integrated Community Services Society in Oliver received $19,500 for a variety of programs they run, and other groups such as the Okanagan Falls Lions Club, Okanagan Boundary Shrine Club, Oliver Scouts and Ok Mini School Society also received some funding.
“The groups receiving these grants provide important services in their communities. This funding will help them continue their great work,” said Boundary-Similkameen MLA John Slater.
The funding is part of a $33 million payment of community gaming grants to thousands of non-profit organizations across British Columbia.