A new study from the Thompson Rivers University (TRU) has discovered that the BCLC head office located in Kamloops has contributed $2.2 billion to the economic and social development of the city.
It also found that for every two full-time jobs at BCLC Kamloops office, one full-time job is created in the community based on economic spinoffs.
BCLC is estimated to have created a total employment impact of 667 full time jobs in Kamloops, including 445 BCLC jobs and an additional 222 in the community.
“BCLC’s role to give back to British Columbians is underscored by its economic contributions to not only Kamloops, but funds generated by gaming that go back to the people of our province in the form of healthcare, education and important community programs,” said Minister of Finance and Minister responsible for BCLC Selina Robinson. “BCLC remains an important employer in the region and a vital organization for the people and communities of British Columbia.”
The study conducted by Dr. Peter Tsigaris and economist at TRU, identified that BCLC has spent $232 million on local goods and services from Kamloops suppliers. Applying an economic impact multiplier of 1.4, its estimated that in total they have contributed approximately $324.9 million to the local economy.
In fact, the TRU study found that the average BCLC employee in Kamloops volunteers approximately 45 hours annually, totalling approximately 475,659 hours over the last 35 years for a cumulative social impact estimated at $32.2 million. Combined, employees have donated almost $4 million to local charities since 1985; factoring in indirect social impacts, their donations are valued at approximately $9.3 million.
“BCLC is an important friend of the Kamloops Food Bank and many charities in Kamloops,” said Bernadette Siracky, Executive Director of the Kamloops Food Bank. “BCLC’s people have a true passion for giving back and have donated a significant amount of their own time and resources to support countless causes and organizations that make a real difference in our community.”
A portion of BCLC net income is delivered to the Province of BC, which distributes a portion to charitable organizations through Community Gaming Grants, and the local government that host gambling facilities.
Overall the study estimated that BCLC activities enabled $373 million in social contributions to the Kamloops community since 1985.
