Dec 16, 2015 - Gaming Funds Used to Help Syrian Refugee Crisis

Last updated on March 13, 2020

The Gaming Policy and Enforcement Branch (GPEB) will accept applications from organizations in British Columbia that want to be licensed for gaming events that raise funds to help eligible organizations, such as the Canadian Red Cross, with disaster relief for Syrian refugees outside the country or overseas.

In January 2005, the government made amendments to gaming policies, allowing in certain circumstances the use of net proceeds from licensed gaming events when their purpose is to assist with relief efforts for disasters and emergencies that have occurred outside of B.C.

Organizations wishing to participate in such fundraising efforts must meet the specified criteria and obtain a licence from GPEB. Community fundraising groups must provide a letter from the eligible organization destined to receive the funds that acknowledges the gaming event, and agrees to accept the proceeds and use them for eligible purposes.

For detailed information see the following documents:

  • Class A and B Licence - Guidelines (Removed March 12, 2020 see details)
  • Class D Licence - Guidelines (Removed March 12, 2020 see details)

More information about Class A, Class B and Class D gaming event licences is available on the Licences page of this website.

Contact information

Contact the Gaming Policy and Enforcement Branch if you have questions about gambling in B.C.