Larger municipalities have access to senior government grants and community funding initiatives.
But when it comes to semi-rural communities, like Anmore and Belcarra, the resources are few.
That's been a problem for the Sasamat Volunteer Fire Department as it tries to secure cash to replace 20 Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) packs for its crew.
Last November, it launched a drive to raise $170,000 to upgrade its units for 42 firefighters.
But, so far, it's only managed to bring in $13,000 — and half of that was from one donor (Belcarra's Paul Droulis, who owns Canadian Tire in Maillardville, gave $7,000).
And the department's effort to obtain a provincial gaming grant also hasn't been successful.
Neil Belenkie, a Belcarra resident and firefighter who's in charge of the community side of the fundraiser, said the department doesn't want to go cap-in-hand to the two village councils as it's trying to steer away from a property tax hike.
Rather, it wants to see if it can collect the money itself.
The department is offering a number of goodies to entice individuals, businesses and groups to make a contribution: $50 will see your name on SVFD's online donor banner while $15,000 will buy you SVFD gear, an honorary membership and have a SVFD fire truck at your village event, among other things.
"We are doing everything we can go get the word out about this campaign," chief Jay Sharpe said.
Last year, the volunteer team responded to 112 calls for help (its territory also includes two popular destinations: Buntzen Lake and Belcarra regional park). One of its biggest response calls was on Hamber Island last June.
Sharpe said the current breathing packs — tanks, harnesses, regulators and masks — are nearly 25 years old, are heavy to carry around and are good for only 30 minutes.
The new units, on the other hand, would supply 45 minutes of oxygen, be lighter on firefighters' backs and provide better communication. They would also synch up with gear from Port Moody, the neighbouring jurisdiction that provides mutual aid.
"In a fire, every second counts," Belenkie said. "That's why this equipment is so important."
• To make an online donation, go to svfd.ca or call 604-839-5315.
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