VIDEO: The Hinesburg Fire Department is developing a new backcountry rescue squad with help from a $7,000 grant that officials call โtransformative.โ The funding comes from the Shelburne Charlotte Hinesburg Interfaith Projects, known as SCHIP. The nonprofit raises money through its Shelburne store that sells used and donated goods.
โI just think search and rescue is important. With all the hikers and outdoor activists — thatโs a good place to give,โ said Robin Cunningham, a SCHIP grant committee member. The rescue team plan has been months in the making. Nadeau said he worked with other departments and the state rescue coordinator to determine the best equipment needs.
โThis was right out the box, โLetโs collaborate on a state level to make sure weโre doing things right.โ Weโre collaborating with the right people and ultimately, as we started to figure out funding. And in this case, grant funding, that weโre getting the right equipment,โ said Hinesburg Fire Chief Prescott Nadeau.
