The 100 Mile House Citizens on Patrol (COP) group is in its 17th year of working together to prevent crime in the district.
Member Wayne Bittner says COP depends on donations from generous individuals and businesses to continue operating. It also holds fundraising activities, such as a recent raffle during which it raised $2,274.
He explains the first prize of a Husqvarna 924HV snowblower valued at $1,200, won by David Labossiere, was provided by Exeter Forest & Marine Sales Ltd. at the retailer's wholesale cost.
The second prize of a complete spa package and lunch, with a $230 value, was donated by The Hills Health Ranch and won by Wayne Belcher.
The third prize, won by Grace Marshall, was a $50 day pass for Mt. Timothy Ski Area, which, he notes, is a purchased item as the ski hill is run by a non-profit society.
The local group needs new recruits to maintain patrols, which, Bittner says, mainly occur within the District of 100 Mile House, but members also respond to callouts to 93 Mile, along Exeter Road and sometimes out to 103 Mile Lake.
“We are looking for new members and public financial support.”
Each vehicle patrol typically covers 40-60 kilometres, he adds, and a stipend is provided to cover gasoline costs.
Members must go through screening by the RCMP and have a criminal record check before they are accepted and undergo training.
The local group is a unit of the South Cariboo Citizens on Patrol, and he explains there are also various other groups in outlying communities.
To obtain an application form or donate, call Bittner at 250-395-1107. To find a COP group in your local area, call toll-free to 1-877-593-2344.
Donations may also be mailed to Citizens on Patrol, PO Box 340, 100 Mile House, B.C., V0K 2E0, and folks can contribute their bottle and can refunds to COP at Gold Trail Recycling.