Apr 12, 2006 - Gaming Funds Helping British Columbians

Seniors at a Sikh temple in Prince George, gymnastics teams in Kamloops, lawn bowlers in Victoria and skateboarders in Canoe B.C. are just some of the British Columbians benefiting from almost $3 million in gaming grants to charities for capital projects this year, Solicitor General John Les said today.

"We're putting gaming funds to work across the province to support projects that enhance communities," said Les. "These kinds of initiatives make the exceptional quality of life we all share in BC even better."

Through the ministry's capital project grant program, an organization can apply for funds to build a new facility, or renovate or maintain an existing one. The organization's contribution must be equal to - or exceed - the grant funding. As well, the total cost of the project must exceed $20,000 and the facility must be open to the public when completed.

"Almost 50 charities will share $2,789,589 in capital project grants this year," said Les. "Gaming funds are improving access for the disabled, restoring heritage sites and building sports fields and other recreational facilities."

Funding to charities for capital grants comes from the Direct Access program, which provides grants to eligible organizations with funds from government gaming revenues. To be eligible for a capital grant, organizations must be non-profit, benefit local communities, and have volunteers in key positions.

To see a list of capital project grants for 2005/06 by community, charity and project description, click on the following link:

• Capital Project Grants - 2005/06 (PDF)