CASTLEGAR – New Democrat MLA Katrine Conroy says local organizations will be able to keep people safe with funding from the Community Gaming Grants program for public safety initiatives.

“It’s important to be as prepared as possible when enjoying the beautiful Kootenay outdoors,” said MLA Conroy. “Unexpected situations can happen. I’m so grateful to our local search and rescue operators who are there to get us to safety when we need their help, and am glad to see continued support for their work.”

In Castlegar, the Castlegar Society for Search & Rescue is receiving $100,000 for their Land Search and Rescue work. In Slocan, the Slocan and District Technical Rescue Society is receiving a $7,000 for their continued operations in Marine Search and Rescue.

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