PRINCE RUPERT– New Democrat MLA Jennifer Rice says local organizations will be able to restore local ecosystems, rescue animals, and keep people safe thanks to funding from the Community Gaming Grants program for environmental and public safety initiatives.

“Supporting programs that make our communities safer and preserve our natural environment is incredibly important to our government,” said Jennifer Rice, MLA for North Coast. “By supporting organizations such as the Prince Rupert Marine Rescue Society, we’re ensuring that help will be available to those who need it when out on the water.”

In the North Coast, 2 community organizations are receiving $77,200 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 2 local not-for-profits are receiving $33,500 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.