GVEC Awards Grant to Geronimo VFD

GVEC Seguin Area Manager Roger Bading (right), presents $13,000 check to the Geronimo Volunteer Fire Department Chief Keith Lohse (left) for the purchase of a thermal imaging camera for victim search and rescue and protection of firefighters.

Gonzales, TX – (July 8, 2010) - The Geronimo Volunteer Fire Department (GVFD) was recently awarded a $13,000 community development grant through the Guadalupe Valley Electric Cooperative (GVEC) and one of its wholesale power suppliers, the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA). The grant will allow for the purchase of a thermal imaging camera for the department.

The Geronimo Volunteer Fire Department consists of approximately 30 volunteers and serves the Geronimo area as well as surrounding communities when mutual aid is needed. The funds received from the grant will be used to purchase a thermal imaging camera which will help firemen detect changes in heat differences through barriers as well as locate victims through heavy smoke infested areas. “I would like to thank GVEC and LCRA for their support. We’ve been planning this purchase for several years now, however other departmental needs have taken precedent. This specialized piece of equipment will help us enhance our services to the public as well as assist in keeping our firefighters safe,” said GVFD Chief Keith Lohse.

Through the Community Development Partnership Program (CDPP), GVEC and LCRA team up to provide economic development and community assistance to non-profit organizations throughout the service area. Darren Schauer, GVEC General Manager, commented, “GVEC is pleased to fulfill this need for the residents of the Geronimo area. With this equipment, lives will be protected and saved. We are proud to support the community efforts and service of the Geronimo Volunteer Fire Department.”