The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen is applying for a $25,000 grant for emergency preparedness.
The funding, through the Union of British Columbia Municipalities, is to help build local capacity to provide emergency social services. Training, volunteer recruitment and retention and the purchase of equipment are covered by the grant, but ongoing operational costs are not eligible.
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The regional district has identified training and volunteer retention as priorities.
Emergency Support Services provides support to those who have had to evacuate as a result of floods, fires or other emergencies. The program provides social services for up to 72 hours and may include food, lodging, emotional support, information about the crisis and family reunification.
“The grant will improve the consistency of the program delivery and build on the spirit of collaboration within the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen Emergency Support Services community,” said Anne Benn, emergency program coordinator with the regional district.
The regional district has received similar grant funding in 2017, 2018 and 2020.
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