Elkford Search and Rescue has a new home of its own, with the team taking possession of their future headquarters and base of operations on June 15.
Located at 222 Alpine Way, the new home for the local SAR is ideally located near the centre of town.
Team manager with Elkford SAR, Marianne Stone said that having a home of their own was a fantastic development after years of sharing accommodation.
“We have been searching for a proper facility for years,” said Stone, who added that their previous home lacked running water and there were limits on other utilities.
Their old base of operations was the double garage behind the fire-hall, so their new base is a bit of a step up.
The building, which is an old SHAW building, does require a little TLC, and the team are currently assessing what they need to do to get it in tip top shape and ideal for what they want and need.
“The team members are looking forward to a home they can call their own. They are volunteering to do many of the required updates and maintenance to return the structure to a place we can be proud of,” said Stone.
The planning team for Elkford SAR is already at work, figuring out what’s needed and after that’s all done work will commence straight away, with works expected to be completed over summer.
Funding for their new home was made possible through saving up, and funding from the Provincial Government. “The continuation of the sustainable provincial funding will allow us to afford the utilities and maintenance required,” said Stone. The Elkford SAR also receives support from the District of Elkford and annual grant funding from the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK).
“This move will allow the team to move ahead in their endeavors to train, operate and take pride in something they all believe in,” said Stone.
“If you see us out there at 222 Alpine Way, stop in and say Hi, learn about what we do, maybe even join us. We are a volunteer organization that is trained to do just what our name says - “Search” and “Rescue” those that need out help in the surrounding back country.”
READ MORE: Elkford SAR has quiet year
scott.tibballs@thefreepress.ca
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