The latest round of gaming grants benefits organizations in Williams Lake to the tune of $135,000.
A press release issued by the gaming branch states the main recipients in the community gaming grant category are adult sport and arts organizations as well as human and social services organizations.
"With this latest round of grants, over 5,000 community groups across British Columbia have received a total of $135 million in funding."
Local organizations receiving the grants include the Invasive Species Council of British Columbia ($50,000), Boys and Girls Club of Williams Lake and District ($35,000), Station House Gallery ($22,700), BC Rodeo Association ($20,000), Lions Club ($14,744), and Central Interior Regional Arts Council ($2,900).
"Our funding has remained consistent over the last four years," says local Boys and Girls Club executive director Monica Johnston. Typically they receive $28,000 for programming and $7,000 for supplemental, which this year will be used to replace flooring at the centre.
The $35,000- grant represents about five per cent of the club's overall budget, and helps with recreation and nutrition for children and youth services.
"Anything helps," Johnston says.
For Station House Gallery's manager Diane Toop the return of the gaming funds indicates the gallery's commitment to the community is being recognized.
"We remain hopeful that some continuity in the funds will resume so organizations such as the Station House can maintain our programs and service to our communities without concerns about how we will meet next year's budget needs," Toop says.