GOVERNMENT PROVIDES $2.2 MILLION IN CHARITABLE GAMING GRANTS

The Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority (SLGA) has distributed approximately $2.2 million in charitable gaming grants to approximately 1,100 provincial groups and organizations.

Groups that receive funds through licensed charitable gaming (bingo, raffles, break-open ticket sales, Texas Hold ‘em poker and Monte Carlo events) receive a grant equal to 25 per cent of net proceeds raised through these activities. The grants are paid quarterly.

"These organizations provide services essential to the social and economic health of our communities," Minister responsible for the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority Dan D'Autremont said. "Our government is pleased to support their fundraising efforts by providing them with these grants."

The grants support diverse groups and organizations across the province. Some of the most recent recipients include the Children's Wish Foundation ($84,205), Canadian Mental Health Association ($33,251), the La Ronge Band Funds ($122,531) and Battlefords Union Hospital Foundation ($14,581).

"This donation will grant the special wishes of several Saskatchewan children coping with high-risk, life-threatening illnesses and provide these youngsters and their families with hope, happiness, laughter and memories that will be cherished forever," Children's Wish Foundation Saskatchewan Chapter director Carla Loney-Tindall said.

"Every additional dollar the Foundation receives through fundraising efforts and from public donations results in more modern, efficient diagnosis and treatment available close to home for patients of Battlefords Union Hospital (BUH)," BUH Foundation executive director Renee Belyk said. "The added support we are receiving from the charitable gaming grant program is very much appreciated and significantly increases our ability to fulfil the Foundation's mandate of enhancing patient care."

Groups that conduct licensed charitable gaming activities and events do not have to apply for the charitable gaming grant. Charitable gaming reports submitted by groups and organizations are used by SLGA to calculate grants.

-30-

For more information, contact:

David Morris
Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority
Regina
Phone: 306-787-1721
Email: dmorris@slga.gov.sk.ca