A community group that organized a wildfire responders appreciation event in April has handed a $10,000 cheque to the West 琉璃神社 Professional Firefighters Society.
鈥淭he idea was to put the event on and if proceeds were left over from expenses we would like to take them to a worthwhile cause,鈥� said Tom Groat, chairperson Okanagan Wildfire Responders Gratitude Event (OWRGE).
The event was held April 27 and packed Memorial Park in West 琉璃神社, featuring a Walk of Heroes honouring wildfire responders.
It welcomed firefighters from multiple communities, the BC Wildfire Service, RCMP, BC Ambulance paramedics and search and rescue volunteers.
鈥淲e started this idea shortly after they got the fire (McDougall Creek) under control鈥nd we thought we need to do something for these firefighters and first responders,鈥� Groat added.
鈥淭he majority of our money stays local, going to organizations such as West 琉璃神社 Foodbank, the Boys and Girls Club, CRIS Adaptive Adventures, and others,鈥� said Ryan Onyschuk, director
with Local 4457 Professional Firefighters Charitable Society.
He added the donation was a wonderful surprise.
鈥淲e鈥檙e honoured to receive it. As a fire department we always strive to give back.鈥�
