December 2, 2011
GAMING GRANTS HELP THOSE WHO KEEP US SAFE

CHILLIWACK – Five organizations in Chilliwack and the eastern Fraser Valley will share $165,550 in the latest round of gaming grants released today by the provincial government. They are:

• Chilliwack Search and Rescue Society - $42,000
• Chilliwack Amateur Radio Club - $5,050
• Harrison Hot Springs Volunteer Fire Department - $20,000
• Hope Volunteer Search and Rescue Group - $42,500
• Kent-Harrison Search and Rescue Team Society - $56,000

Quotes:
Chilliwack MLA John Les:
“These five groups provide vital services to families in our community, and grants are very important to helping them succeed in making Chilliwack a safer place to live, work and play.”

Chilliwack-Hope MLA Barry Penner:
“Many of the search and rescue personnel who work so hard to keep our region safe are volunteering their time and energy without the thought of financial compensation. Through these grants, we’re making sure they can continue to provide the exemplary, invaluable service our community needs.”

Why this matters:
• Across British Columbia, 196 recipients will share $3,710,901 in this latest round of grants from provincial gaming revenue. 
• All five of the Chilliwack and eastern Fraser Valley organizations benefitting from this round are being awarded grants under the public safety category. 

Quick facts:
• In 2010/11, government distributed a total of $135 million in gaming grants for eligible community programs and services.  The original budget called for $120 million, but in April 2011 Premier Christy Clark boosted funding by an extra $15 million.
• About 6,000 community groups across B.C. benefited from these funds.

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