Home »
Fernie Childcare Society gets provincial funding help
The Fernie Childcare Society Feb. 8 received a provincial shot in the arm to help it continue to provide child care services for city residents.
Kootenay East MLA Bill Bennett presented a $11,600 Community Gaming Grant from the B.C. government to society employees and board members during a brief ceremony that included some of the children at the 2nd Avenue facility.
“We are happy to announce the allocation of the Community Gaming Grant funds to the Fernie Childcare Society. This non-profit society, formed by parents in the Fernie area, is a sustainable solution for young families to access quality day care. Their work is integral to strengthening our community – and we are proud to support them in any way we can,” Bennett stated.
“The Fernie Childcare Society is extremely thankful to be receiving the Community Gaming Grant. The contribution will greatly assist the society in fulfilling its mandate of providing affordable quality childcare to the families of the Fernie area,” said Marie-Pierre Castonguay of the Fernie Child Care Society.
City of Fernie Mayor Mary Giuliano, on hand for the funding presentation, pointed out that MLA Bennett played a key role in finding $156,000 to help the childcare society get into its current home.
“Bill was instrumental in this,” she said, as numerous small children scampered around the adult’s legs.
Community Gaming Grants allow non-profit organizations to apply for provincial gaming revenues.
Last fiscal year, in 2011/12, our government distributed a total of $135 million in gaming grants for eligible community programs and services. More than 5,300 community groups benefited from funding during 2011/12.
Across British Columbia, 181 recipients will share $9,272,995 in the latest round of grants.
Recipients in this round of grants include programs for Human and Social Services, Arts and Culture, and Environment. Community Gaming Grants help local groups provide important services for B.C. families.
Full application information is available online at: https://www.pssg.gov.bc.ca/gaming/.
Ian Cobb/e-KNOW
