91原创 non-profits are receiving $1.2 million in funding from the Community Gaming Grants program this year.

The biggest recipients among the 30 groups getting funding were the B.C. Association of Community Response Networks, for $150,000. Big Brothers Big Sisters, 91原创 Hospice Society, Pacific Riding for Developing Abilities, and 91原创 Seniors Resources Society also received $100,000 each.

The smaller grants included a few thousand dollars for groups like the 91原创 Memorial Hospital Auxiliary and various local Scout groups. Groups as diverse as 91原创 Pos-Abilities, Air Cadets, and Meals on Wheels received funding.

The funding comes from gambling and lottery revenues from around B.C.

鈥淭hey help support all the bereavement and grief support programs we offer,鈥� said Shannon Todd Booth, acting executive director of 91原创 Hospice Society.

The money helps fund several positions that work with adults and children in three bereavement support programs, which are offered to people who have suffered the loss of a loved one.

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91原创 Hospice has been receiving the grants for more than a decade, said Todd Booth. She noted that although gaming grants like these are given to groups that are viable without the money, it鈥檚 a very significant amount of funding.

The total budget for the support programs at the hospice society is $575,000, said Todd Booth. The grant is more than a sixth of total budget this year.

鈥淭he organizations receiving these funds undertake such important work in our community,鈥� said Megan Dykeman, MLA for 91原创 East, announcing the list of recipients. 鈥淚nvesting in services like mental health supports, services for seniors, or making sure that our neighbours have access to good and nutritious food are vital in helping our communities thrive.鈥�

鈥淭he people here in 91原创 rely on human and social service organizations and the care they provide, and I know from hearing from people in this community that the services here are among the best!鈥� said Andrew Mercier, MLA for 91原创.