NDP MLAs say grants will support local organizations and keep people and the environment safe in Nanaimo and Oceanside communities
NANAIMO – New Democrat MLAs Adam Walker, Doug Routley, and Sheila Malcolmson say local organizations will be able to protect local ecosystems and keep people safe thanks to over $700,000 from the Community Gaming Grants program for environmental and public safety initiatives.
“I am incredibly grateful for the vital work that search and rescue does in our community, and thankful that our government is able to support them financially through these grants,” said Adam Walker, MLA for Parksville-Qualicum. “Every volunteer puts in hundreds of hours to make sure they are able to be there for us, and we’re here for them.”
In Nanaimo and Oceanside communities, the following community organizations are receiving funding for public safety work, which can include restorative justice, firefighting, search and rescue, emergency preparedness and community safety.
- Canadian Avalanche Rescue Dog Association $95,000
- Connective Support Society Nanaimo, $32,000
- Decourcy Island Community Association, $60,000
- Ladysmith & District Marine Rescue Society, $35,000
- Mid-Island Air Search and Rescue Society, $16,000
- Mid-Island Air Search and Rescue Society, $54,000
- Mudge Island Citizens Society, $28,000
- Nanaimo Marine Rescue Society, $46,700
- Nanaimo Search & Rescue Society, $97,700
- Thetis Island Volunteer Firefighters Society, $2,500
The following local organizations are receiving funding for environmental initiatives, such as animal protection, conservation and environmental awareness programs:
- B.C. Marine Trails Network Association, $25,500
- Ecoforestry Institute Society, $15,000
- Georgia Strait Alliance, $100,000
- Nanaimo & Area Land Trust Society, $63,100
- Nanaimo Science and Sustainability Society, $25,500
- Thetis Island Nature Conservancy Society, $13,000
“On the Island, we know the value of keeping our environment healthy and getting out to enjoy it,” said Doug Routley, MLA for Nanaimo-North Cowichan. “These grants are helping to empower some outstanding organizations in our community that protect our natural spaces and ensure that they are safe for people to enjoy and explore.”
More than $12 million in new funding for public safety and environment programs will support 281 non-profit organizations that are helping make life better for people throughout B.C.
“People in Nanaimo are served by many amazing organizations that make the community stronger,” said Sheila Malcolmson, MLA for Nanaimo. “These grants will help continue the important work these community groups do for people and the environment.”
Learn more: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2023MUNI0019-000376