Weyburn will see a piece of approximately $1.8 million in charitable gaming grants that are being distributed to more than 1,000 groups and organizations across the province by the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority (SLGA).
The quarterly grants, which are based on the net proceeds raised through licensed charitable gaming activities, provide important funding for a variety of community projects including volunteer fire departments, humane societies, amateur football and hockey clubs and a variety of local service clubs.
Among the grants provided by SLGA, Weyburn and area received grants totalling $33,497; Lloydminster and area: $26,268; Moose Jaw and area: $42,675; North Battleford and area: $65,579; Swift Current and area: $26,497; and Yorkton and area: $36,046.
The charitable gaming grant program supports groups and organizations that conduct charitable gaming including licensed bingos, raffles, break-open tickets, Texas Hold 'em poker and Monte Carlo events. Groups and organizations receive a grant equal to 25 percent of the net revenues raised from these activities, up to a maximum grant of $100,000 annually.
"These organizations provide services that enhance the economic and social well-being of communities across the province," Minister responsible for the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority Tim McMillan said. "Our government is pleased to be able to provide them with additional funds through the charitable grant program."
Charitable gaming grants are paid quarterly. Groups that conduct licensed charitable gaming activities do not have to apply for the charitable gaming grant. Charitable gaming reports submitted by the groups are used by SLGA to calculate grants.
In 2009-10, SLGA paid out approximately $7.8 million through the charitable gaming grant program.
