The BC Arts Council board recently divvied up $5.7 million in grant money among artists and arts organizations in communities across British Columbia, and the 100 Mile House & District Arts Council got a piece of the pie.
At $1,800, it might be regarded as crumbs, and it's just half of what was received last year and in previous years.
However, 100 Mile Arts Council treasurer Walt Sherry says they were actually expecting less.
"The grants have dried up a bit. We get money for remote arts councils, which are based on population and distance from other centres. They changed the formula this year."
The 100 Mile council is the umbrella organization for about 12 member groups, including the 100 Mile House Mural Society, Eclectica, and 100 Mile Festival of the Arts, which all depend on receiving a portion of the annual BC Arts Council grant, he notes.
"The funding is very essential to these groups. We have no ideas on how to make up the shortfall. We may just have to cut down on how much we distribute."
Sherry adds the 100 Mile arts council raises funds each year, and in total, they distribute $6,000 amongst their member groups.
Last year, the society cut back by not bringing in its traditional concert series, and this year will see a repeat of that.
