PRRD allocates $100K in search and rescue grants

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — The Peace River Regional District (PRRD) is allocating $100K to search and rescue organizations in the Peace River Region. 

At the July 23 PRRD board meeting, PRRD staff presented a report recommending that the board authorize the distribution of $100,000 among three search-and-rescue organizations (SAR). 

The North Peace Search and Rescue Society will receive $48,500, the South Peace Emergency Response Team will receive $30,000 and the Tumbler Ridge Search and Rescue Society will receive $21,500. 

The report said these grants come from Function 180 – Health-Related Services Grants-in-Aid to fund search-and-rescue efforts. 

This aid is part of the PRRD, which provides financial support to not-for-profit organizations to enhance the quality and availability of various health-related services. 

The report said that every year, the PRRD supports eligible SAR organizations that provide search and rescue services in the region with funding for operational and minor capital costs.

The three selected SAR organizations work independently and collaboratively to deliver the best possible SAR services in the region, through the “efforts and dedication” of volunteers. 

The report said grant funding for this service is obtained through taxation in the area that benefits, as set by the Health-Related Services Grant in Aid Service Establishment Bylaw no. 2445, 2021. 

The approved grant contributions will be paid after a formal approval from the regional board, unless an alternative payment process is identified.

The report said the financial contributions must be utilized within a year after formal approval by the regional board. 

To read the full report, see below.