Barry Coulter
Provincial grants have recently been awarded to several East Kootenay athletic and artistic organizations.
Six community organizations received $95,220 in gaming grants as part of the province's Community Gaming Grant Program, the Government of B.C. announced in a press release this week.
Local organizations receiving the grants were:
• Cranbrook Minor Hockey Association - $45,000
• Special Olympics British Columbia Society - Elk Valley - $4,200
• East Kootenay Volleyball Club - $14,720
• Cranbrook Amateur Swim Association - $10,300
• B.C. Seniors Games Society - Zone 7 - $6,000
• Symphony of the Kootenays Association - $15,000
Steen Jorgensen, President of the Symphony of the Kootenays, said that a portion of that organization's revenue comes from seat sales, and another important portion from funding sources like the Government of British Columbia.
"This money is an important part of helping us move forward with an exciting new season," Jorgensen said.
He added that the Symphony offered its personal thanks to Kootenay East MLA Bill Bennett.
"Gaming grants provide great athletic and art program opportunities to the East Kootenay," Bennett said. "These contributions are examples of our government's commitment to B.C. communities."
Community gaming grants are awarded under the Arts and Sport categories of the Community Gaming Grant Program, which allows non-profit organizations to apply for provincial gaming revenues from the Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development. Gaming Grants are also awarded in the categories of Public Safety, Environment and Human and Social Services.
Organizations interested in applying for Community Gaming Grants can find full application information at gaming.gov.bc.ca.