MLA Russell says grants will support local arts and extracurricular activities in Boundary-Similkameen

Posted in:

GRAND FORKS – New Democrat MLA say local organizations and parent advisory councils will be able to support young artists and extracurricular activities thanks to almost more than $4.5 million in Community Gaming Grants funding.  This round of funding is from the Community Gaming Grants program’s arts and culture stream and parent advisory council and district parent advisory council (PAC/DPAC) stream.

“Beyond its obvious contributions, the arts and culture sector is a beacon of community identity, fostering inclusivity and social cohesion,” says Roly Russell, MLA for Boundary-Similkameen. ‘We need these connections now more than ever.  Beyond that, the great work of all those people working and volunteering in the sector stimulates economic growth by encouraging tourism, generating employment opportunities, and supporting local artisans.  I know myself how much support matters at the local level for these organisations, so I’m proud that we can help them deliver on their visions, whether that’s providing support for the Art Gallery in Grand Forks, the Community Theatre Society of Oliver, the Museum and Archives Society in Princeton, or points in between.  The work they do is important and appreciated, and I’m pleased to announce more support for our communities across the region.”

In the region, 6 organizations are receiving funding to support arts and culture including:

  • Christina Lake Arts and Artisans Society, $8,000
  • Grand Forks Art Gallery Society, $50,000
  • Oliver Community Theatre Society, $8,500
  • Osoyoos Festival Society, $5,000
  • Princeton and District Museum and Archives Society, $9,000
  • Princeton Community Arts Council Society, $6,500

15 parent advisory councils/district parent advisory councils are receiving funding to support extracurricular events, activities and equipment including:

  • Dr. D.A. Perley PAC, $12,680
  • Oliver Elementary PAC, $7260
  • Osoyoos Secondary PAC, $4,400

More than $18.2 million in new funding will go to over 650 organizations to support arts and culture across the province.

More than 1,300 parent advisory councils and district parent advisory councils will also receive over $11.2 million to support extracurricular activities throughout British Columbia.

Learn more: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2023MUNI0055-001993 and https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2023MUNI0053-001975