Timmins, Ontario CA -Timmins Porcupine Search and Rescue (TPSAR) has a lot more to talk about thanks to a $30,000 grant from the Trillium Foundation of Ontario.

The grant will allow the all-volunteer local organization to purchase new programmable radios and computer equipment that will allow TPSAR to have improved performance in the field when they are conducting search and rescue work. The new equipment consisting of five mobile radios and 12 portable radios will also allow search organizers to get a GPS fix on each searcher while he or she is in the process of carrying out a search. The TPSAR organization is fully trained to carry out search and rescue work and integrates its training with area police agencies. In recent years the organization has worked with Timmins Police and OPP on several searches for missing persons, as well as working with Timmins Police on the search for a murder weapon and other evidence in a local murder case.

Speaking on behalf of Trillium, Ron Leduc of Timmins extended thanks to TPSAR for all the hard work the organization has done over the years.

"You are called up in time of need, in time of great stress and challenge. And I know this organization has set a very high standard for search and rescue in this part of the province. The Ontario Trillium Foundation is very proud to support it," said Leduc.

TPSAR president Jim Thomson said fundraising is always a struggle for the volunteer organizations. He said TPSAR feels it is essential to keep it's equipment up to date and said the Trillium funding will give the organization a substantial boost in that direction.

Mayor Tom Laughren said the announcement was a good news event for the whole community.

"You want to be the best at search and Rescue, which is believe these guys are and the good work they do in our community in time of need for all kinds of different agencies and people, you need to have the best equipment," said the mayor, adding he felt it was important to pass on his thanks on behalf of the community.

Laughren said it was another example of how outstanding volunteerism in Timmins comes forward to provide an essential service to the community.