Staff Writer - Vernon Morning Star Published: March 13, 2011 1:00 AM
Vernon residents are being asked for ideas on how to address gambling addiction. The City of Vernon has been given a $50,000 grant from the B.C. Lottery Corporation to pursue a responsible gambling community initiative. “We are the pilot project,” said Annette Sharkey, with Partners in Action, which will oversee the process. “The community will decide what the project looks like. Where do we want to focus the awareness? If a family member has an issue, where do you get support?” As part of the goal to promote responsible gambling practices, a meeting will be held Friday at 2 p.m. on the second floor of the Community Futures building, 3105 33rd St. “We are promoting the meeting with non-profits and agencies involved in addiction,” said Sharkey. “But there may be others in the community with information or a passion for the topic.” Sharkey believes it is important to draw on local expertise to ensure that the project meets specific local needs and concerns regarding problem gambling. While BCLC has provided sample models for the initiative, Sharkey insists the provincial agency has ensure there is considerable room for innovation. Anyone interested in attending Friday’s meeting and being part of the process is asked to RSVP in advance to Sharkey at info@socialplanning.ca.
No comments:
Post a Comment