NELSON – New Democrat MLA Brittny Anderson says local organizations will be able to restore local ecosystems and keep people safe with funding from the Community Gaming Grants program for environmental and public safety initiatives.

“There are so many things we can do at the local level to protect our environment and keep one another safe,” said MLA Anderson. “And we’re so lucky to have organizations in the Kootenays taking on that work. Whether it’s conservation, education, or search and rescue teams, they all play an important part in keeping us safe, happy, and healthy.”

In Kaslo and Nelson, three community organizations are receiving over $131,000 in grants for public safety work. This can include volunteer firefighting, marine and land search and rescue operations, crime reduction and restorative justice, and emergency response and communications.

Another four local not-for-profits are receiving $74,000 for environmental initiatives such as ecosystem conservation, animal welfare, and education and outreach programs.

Over $10.5 million is being distributed through the Environment and Public Safety streams of the Community Gaming Grant program for the 2021/2022 fiscal year. $140 million are distributed annually though Community Gaming Grants to roughly 1,500 community not-for-profit organizations across all streams of the program. These grants help organizations build strong, vibrant communities across B.C.

Learn more: Gaming grants help protect local environments, keep people safe