VICTORIA – SSI, local shipbuilding software developer, announced their sponsorship of the Victoria Marine Rescue Society (VMRS) with a five-year commitment that extends through to 2026.
VMRS is ramping up fundraising activity in the Victoria community to establish a new home near Ogden Point, construct an all-electric rescue vessel, train more people to be available for rescue, and increase the number of back-office volunteers.
“For over 30 years, ships built with our solutions have been put in-service all over the world, as well as here in Victoria.” says Darren Larkins, SSI co-CEO. “I’m proud that we are able to partner with a local organization committed to keeping our marine community safe, including for those onboard vessels we’ve played a part in.”
“A critical part of our organization’s culture is about being purposeful in how we innovate and approach problems.” says Denis Morais, SSI co-CEO. “We see that same spirit in VMRS, and today’s announcement demonstrates our commitment to build on our company’s spirit in the local community.”
SSI will collaborate with VMRS to help make the sea a safer place to be. VMRS’s support of Station 35 has resulted in successful responses to hundreds of calls in the past five years. Just this past month, as RCMSR – Station 35 wrapped up training for the night, a mayday call came in from an adrift windsurfer. The rescue crew were able to get the individual warm, safe, and back ashore to his family within minutes. The extensive training and preparedness of the team is made possible thanks to VMRS’s ongoing work.
The contributions of $20,000 annually for five years represent a long-term commitment to supporting VMRS. The rescue organization’s fundraising efforts within the local community will give the non-profit more opportunities to save lives.
“It is fantastic to have the support of a company like SSI, especially when they are local to Victoria.” says Alan Lawrence, Treasurer at VMRS. “SSI’s support brings us closer to achieving our goals and boosts our readiness to tackle any rescue situation in our waters.”
VMRS is the volunteer organization behind Royal Canadian Marine Search & Rescue – Station 35, Victoria’s local search and rescue station based at Ogden Point. Station 35 keeps the waters around Victoria safe to enjoy for all.
Donations to VMRS can be made by visiting: Donate | VMRS
