Desktop – Leaderboard

Home » MVFD given communications system grant

Posted: January 9, 2026

MVFD given communications system grant

JVCKENWOOD Canada Inc. is proud to announce the Moyie Volunteer Fire Department (MVFD) as the latest recipient of the $15,000 Kenwood Cares communications equipment grant, recognizing their dedication and commitment to community safety.

As a young and growing department, Moyie’s volunteers have relied on fundraising efforts and small grants to build their operations. Until recently, members communicated using basic FRS radios – an unreliable option in the community’s terrain.

About a year ago, another department donated their retired radios, offering a small improvement but still far from adequate for the demanding conditions of the region.

“The Moyie Volunteer Fire Department is extremely grateful to receive the Kenwood Cares Award, as it comes at a time when funding for small rural volunteer fire departments is increasingly difficult to secure,” said Bill Sanderman, Moyie Volunteer Fire Department administrator.

“The $15,000 in radio communications equipment that we will receive makes a tremendous difference in our ability to respond effectively and safely to emergencies. Reliable communication is vital to the coordination of our firefighters, especially in rural areas with challenging terrain and limited infrastructure. This support from Kenwood not only strengthens our operational capabilities but also shows that the dedication of small rural departments like ours is recognized and valued.”

The department, which operates entirely with unpaid volunteers, recently completed construction of its first firehall – a major milestone made possible through community fundraising and countless hours of volunteer labour. With the new facility now complete, their focus has turned to training and improving emergency response across the region.

“The Moyie Volunteer Fire Department truly represents what community spirit is all about,” said Wilf Mulder, Vice President, Safety & Security Division at JVCKENWOOD Canada.

“They’ve built something incredible from the ground up, entirely through volunteer effort, and we’re proud to help equip them with the reliable communications they deserve.”

The Kenwood Cares grant will provide Moyie with a modern communications system to support their operations and enhance firefighter safety. Working with the Kenwood team, MVFD selected the NX-3000 series portable two-way radios, along with high-capacity batteries and heavy-duty headsets. The radio equipment will be configured by the team at Kootenay Communications in Cranbrook.

“Kootenay Communications Ltd. is proud to congratulate the Moyie Volunteer Fire Department on being selected as a recipient of the Kenwood Cares program grant,” said Janice Nicli, Executive Director, Kootenay Communications.

“Reliable communication is critical in emergency response, and we will continue to help ensure these dedicated volunteers have the tools they need.”

Applications are now open for the next round of the Kenwood Cares program.

JVCKENWOOD Canada will be awarding another $15,000 communications equipment grant to a Canadian volunteer emergency organization. The submission deadline is June 30.

For eligibility requirements and to apply, visit www.kenwoodcares.ca.

Photos submitted

Submitted


Article Share
Author: