Funding

Port Alberni Marine Rescue Society raises funds through three avenues:

• Major expenditures, such as a new rescue vessel, are largely funded by the provincial government through grants from B.C. Lottery Corporation, usually over multiple years. The Government of B.C. has made public safety and security a priority in the distribution of such grants.

• Other equipment expenses, such as cruiser suits and life jackets, handheld marine radios etc., are typically funded through donations from local sources, such as businesses, service organizations, First Nations, trade unions, and benevolent individuals. Our group also receives a portion of proceeds from Bingo gaming at the local Chances Rimrock Gaming Centre.

• Operating expenses, i.e. the actual costs of running the rescue vessel on a daily basis, are funded by the Canadian Coast Guard via a pay-for-services schedule. They also fund on-water training of members, and provide classroom training and instructors.

There is no payment to the volunteers, except for fuel costs if a private vessel is involved in an approved mission.

For a list of individuals and organizations which have recently donated to the Port Alberni Marine Rescue Society, please click here.