The Nechako Valley Search and Rescue team (NVSAR) in Vanderhoof is hoping to build a new heated garage for its vehicles and mobile command centre.
Thanks to a Four Rivers Co-Op donation worth $19,000, as part of its $100,000 Community Support Fund, the project is closer to becoming a reality.
Spokesperson Chris Mushumanski believes this form of generosity is also an investment for all of Northern BC.
“This also speaks to the value of search and rescue across that whole area. Nechako Valley Search and Rescue has a long history of responding to any calls in Northern BC, so this will go a long ways to getting this project underway, which will help keep our response vehicles dry, safe, and warm.”
Here is the funding announcement from @FourRiversCoop for our new heated garage project! #BCSAR #Vanderhoof #coopcares pic.twitter.com/pbdkIBywu6
— Nechako Valley SAR (@NechakoVallySAR) January 12, 2018
NVSAR is made up of 38 volunteers, who get called across the region to assist other teams in searching for missing people.
Mushumanski says it’s tough to consider new projects like these, given they don’t receive regular funding from anyone.
“We spend thousands of hours grant writing every year to fund things like equipment training, buildings, and personal protective equipment. We put in over 300,000 hours a year in all the different things that we do period.”
He adds even outdoor enthusiasts who make an effort to have a safe trip on their own is appreciated in itself.
“Just that awareness alone I believe is much appreciated to thank the volunteers, and to be able to provide support in other ways other than finances.”
NVSAR’s construction of the garage is scheduled to begin in the Spring.
– with files from Zenga McCurdy, My Nechako Valley Now
We are so proud to support Nwchako Valley Search and Rescue with a cheque for $19,000 through our Community Support Fund! #coopcares pic.twitter.com/82Ka2MsrE5
— Four Rivers Co-op (@FourRiversCoop) January 12, 2018