Provincial grants benefit Kelowna organizations

KELOWNA – Competitive and recreational sports programs in Kelowna are getting a boost of more than $148,000, thanks to the province’s community gaming grant program.

Organizations receiving grants:
Okanagan Gymnastics Centre Society – $86,150
Central Okanagan Sailing Association – $29,125
Lake Country Youth Soccer Association (Winfield) – $20,000
Kelowna BMX Society – $13,500

“Participation in sports keeps people active, but also builds important life skills like teamwork and discipline,” says Premier Christy Clark, MLA for Westside-Kelowna. “These investments will help families in Kelowna live healthier, happier lives.”

“These grants cover a wide range of interests, from competitive gymnastics to introductory sailing,” says Kelowna-Mission MLA Steve Thomson. “I encourage residents to learn more about our local sports organizations and consider taking up a new, healthy activity.”

“In the 2012/13 fiscal year, our government contributed $135 million in gaming grants for eligible community programs and services,” says Kelowna-Lake Country MLA Norm Letnick. “These grants go a long way towards ensuring people of all ages can continue to enjoy fantastic community programming.”

These grants are awarded under the Sport category of the Community Gaming Grant Program, which allows non-profit organizations to apply for provincial gaming revenues from the Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development. Gaming Grants are also awarded in the categories of Arts and Culture, Public Safety, Environment and Human and Social Services.

Organizations interested in applying for Community Gaming Grants can find full application information at www.pssg.gov.bc.ca/gaming.