CUMBERLAND MD – County United Way has awarded a LIVE United grant to a local mountain search and rescue group.
MD Search and Rescue (MMSAR) is an all-volunteer organization, established in January 2020. They utilize canines and other specialty equipment to search for lost and or distressed individuals.
CUW Executive Director Michele Walker announced that the group is using the LIVE United grant funding to purchase specialized gear like upgraded rain protection, Garmin GPS devices, and first aid equipment. Walker explained that MMSAR can provide first aid, as required, until further medical treatment can be obtained, and the new equipment will aid the team in ways not previously available to local units.
“Having this specialized equipment in addition to their trained search dogs, MMSAR offers local law enforcement and Fire/EMS opportunities to increase successful endings to search missions,” Walker said.
Due to the success of the team, MMSAR has formed a partnership with Allegany County EMS to be the county’s primary search team. MMSAR recently assisted with searches for a missing 85-year-old in Frostburg, a missing 23-year-old female in Pendleton County and a 76-year-old male in Fulton County.
Pictured are: Michele Walker, County United Way; Beverly McWhirter and her dog Finch; Sierra Fairbanks, Mark Fairbanks and their dog Ricco; Kayley Mullaney and Annabelle; Susan Pritchard and Cooper; and Chris Mullaney.
