Californian city gets ham radio e-comms grant

San Rafael, California has received a $23,000 grant for ham radio operations to help co-ordinate an emergency response during times of disaster.

San Rafael received the grant to establish an amateur radio network that will swing into action if phone and radio communications fail.

The Marin Independent Journal reports that three other Bay Area organizations received funds from California Volunteers as well. This is a state-run organization meant to get civilians trained in emergency response.

The organization's director is Karen Baker. She says the grants will help assist local communities and non-profit organizations to better prepare Californians for the next disaster.

A total of $1 million was handed out across the state. No specific radio clubs or groups were named in the California Volunteers' press release.

Source: ARNewsline, Marin Independent Journal On-Line