NORTH ISLAND – New Democrat MLA Michele Babchuk 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.

“Being safe when adventuring outside and protecting the outdoors where we live, work and play, is paramount for the North Island,” said MLA Babchuk. “We are so lucky to have the dedicated volunteers working hard with these not-for-profit organizations to make this a reality. Their work is critical in keeping people and the environment safe on the North Island.”

On the North Island, two community organizations are receiving over $91,000 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 nearly $127,000 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