The RM of Piney is in awe of the generosity that has followed a brutal theft from one of their fire halls last week.

The overnight disappearance of saws, generators, and extrication tools from the Woodridge Fire Hall last Wednesday originally caused immense frustration but, according to Fire Chief Bill Stowe, those feelings have since given way to gratefulness.

“We have had neighbouring fire departments and neighbouring RMs reaching out to us with their excess equipment or equipment that they could spare and they have been willing to share it," he explains. "That has been very very positive and much appreciated.”

Initially, Stowe was concerned that his crews would not have the proper equipment in the case of a life-threatening crisis and says receiving these essential supplies means a lot. “I don’t think there is anything critical right now that we don’t have,” he remarks.

Piney Chief Administrative Officer Martin Van Osch says he too was wowed by the unconditional kindnesses.

“It has been fantastic, and almost brings me to a speechless point,” he comments.

In addition to receiving assistance from their surrounding municipal councils and fire departments, Van Osch says independent businesses from as far as Winnipeg have also offered up their resources. For example, he says Steinbach Security Services has offered to monitor the facility to deter similar thefts.

“It has been unbelievable how fast word has spread and the number of people saying they have heard the story and want to help without requesting anything in return,” states the thankful CAO. “It is absolutely amazing that all of these people and companies are coming together and understand what has happened here and the risk to the general public.”