Underwater Search and Rescue Team hosts fundraiser to go toward new equipment

By Travis Fischer, tkfischer@charlescitypress.com

Iowa Underwater Search and Rescue held a fundraising vendor event in Floyd on Saturday, Nov. 16.

Opening up bright and early at the Floyd Community Center on Saturday morning, the event featured more than two dozen vendors selling a variety of goods from homemade food and crafts to Tupperware and home décor.

Ginger’s Top Shelf offered breakfast and lunch throughout the day, serving up meals for a freewill donation.

Underwater Search and Rescue team members were on hand to show visitors their response trailer, answering questions about what they do and the gear they work with.

“We had a good turnout,” said team President Sarah Shearman. “A lot of the vendors have been very eager to come help us support the team.”

This is the first time the Underwater Search and Rescue team has put on this kind of fundraiser. The organization is working toward a $50,000 fundraising goal to update aging equipment.

Money raised will go toward purchasing new dry suits, regulators, communications systems and other diving necessities.

“A lot of our equipment was purchased 20 years ago,” said Shearman.

“Our dive team doesn’t get any funding so we’re 100% dependent on outside funds,” said team Vice President Matt Haugan.

The team will continue working toward their goals next summer, with plans underway to set up a fundraising ATV ride.