Community donations support renovations and emergency equipment
The smell of sizzling sausages and the spirit of community will fill the air once again as the Gretna Prairie Centre and Gretna Fire Department host their annual joint barbecue fundraiser on Sunday, May 26.
Starting at 6 p.m. outside the Prairie Centre, volunteer firefighters will fire up the grills to serve hot dogs and mini sausages for a cash donation. The event is family-friendly, with a full picnic-style spread prepared by volunteers from both organizations, including baked beans, coleslaw, desserts, drinks, and chips. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, and in case of rain, the event will move to May 30.
The two organizations first merged their fundraising efforts in 2012. Proceeds from the barbecue are split between the Prairie Centre and the fire department, helping support projects that directly benefit the local community.
“We rely on the generosity of the community,” said Tim Penner, president of the Prairie Centre. “We are grateful for all the support the community shows us and the fire department. It shows we are having an impact on the community and make an influence on others.”
Local businesses including Pioneer Meats, Altona IGA, Altona Co-op, and West Park Motors have contributed to this year’s fundraiser.
The Prairie Centre will use its share of the funds to cover costs from a recent renovation of its dining room, which had not been updated since the centre opened in 1991.
“We want to be more inviting to people,” said Penner. “The room now has a newer, more open and friendlier feel.”
The fire department plans to use its portion to repair or replace critical equipment, such as radios, pagers, or potentially a thermal imaging camera.
“We are here for the community in any way needed, so it makes us proud to serve them in this capacity,” said Fire Chief Jack Driedger.
As part of the event, the fire department will also host a live safety demonstration and display their fire truck and rescue gear. In previous years, demonstrations have included water projection from the fire truck and the dangers of grease fires.
“We might not be in your face all the time, but when the need arises we aim to be there to help,” said Penner.
