The Cranbrook and District Restorative Justice Society has received a $45,000 Community Gaming Grant from the B.C. government.

Across British Columbia, 294 recipients are sharing $6,272,130 in the latest round of grants.

Recipients in this round of grants include programs for Human and Social Services.

Community Gaming Grants help local groups provide important services for B.C. families.

“I am a strong believer in the approach taken by restorative justice groups, particularly as it relates to young offenders. Allowing a young person the opportunity to face up to their mistake and allowing an opportunity for restoration and understanding, is a far superior approach compared to simply taking that young person to court and possibly exposing first time offenders to negative influences. With restorative justice, first time offenders get a second chance and the victim is also given opportunity to feel that justice has been done,” stated Kootenay East MLA Bill Bennett.

“We are very appreciative of MLA Bill Bennett’s ongoing support.  Without it, we would have a very difficult time continuing our programming,” said Debbie McPhee, co-chair, Cranbrook and District Restorative Justice Society.

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.

For more information

Full application information is available online at: http://www.pssg.gov.bc.ca/gaming/.

Above photo: Kootenay East MLA Bill Bennett presents members of the Cranbrook and District Restorative Justice Society with a $45,000 community gaming grant cheque. From left to right: Program Coordinator Bill Barger; Secretary/Treasurer Carol Boekestyn; Co-Chair Debbie McPhee; and Director Doug McPhee.

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