Dear Editor:
On the North Shore, we are fortunate to have the opportunity to enjoy alpine activities, such as snowshoeing and skiing, right in our own backyard. Yet, every winter, people require rescuing on our slopes. In our community, we are extremely fortunate to have North Shore Rescue, a worldclass organization that provides assistance to people in distress.
I have been a strong supporter of North Shore Rescue during their 40-year history.
Years ago, my father used to take groups of seniors for hikes on the North Shore mountains and I was always comforted to know the team was there if needed.
I am so proud that the province has awarded the organization with a $100,000 Community Gaming Grant each year since 2007/08. This year's funding helped purchase, among other supplies, a new helicopter rescue kit.
North Shore Rescue is a team of dedicated volunteers. They conduct numerous search and rescue operations every year, many of which come with great personal risk.
This winter, there were unfortunately many tragic stories and many more close calls on mountains across B.C. Without the excellent work of North Shore Rescue, the number of fatalities would undoubtedly be much higher.
We all owe North Shore Rescue our heartfelt gratitude for their selfless efforts. For more information, I encourage you to visit www. northshorerescue.com.
Thanks, North Shore Rescue.
Jane Thornthwaite, MLA North Vancouver-Seymour
