Community Programs Boosted To Safeguard Environment, Protect People

More than $12 million in new funding for public safety and environment programs is heading into 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, including search dog team training in Powell River, $73,000 for the Campbell River Search & Rescue Society, more than $91,000 for the Comox Valley Ground Search and Rescue Association, and almost $100,000 for the Cortes Island Fire-Fighting Association.

Grants will support a further 150 not-for-profit organizations in the environment sector with $5.9 million for animal protection, conservation and environmental awareness programs.

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 see the full release, visit Government of British Columbia.