Imagine this: a strong storm knocks out the power, and cell towers are quickly overloaded then go down! Suddenly, your phone can’t access the internet, can’t text, or call anyone. For many, especially here along the Sunshine Coast, staying in touch with family, friends, and neighbours during an emergency is not just comforting – it might be essential. This is when Meshcore can help.

Here is a short introduction to a radio text-message system you use when cell phone and internet communications crash, and you need to contact someone.

What is Meshcore?

Using Meshcore is simple, and uses low-cost hand-held devices to communicate with each other without relying on cell phone networks or the internet. If you can send a text on your phone, you can send text messages using Meshcore, too. It’s that simple.

Instead of sending cell phone message to a distant cell tower, a Meshcore device called a companion, lets you text each other directly through signal repeaters installed high in trees or on buildings, like the new solar powered repeater on the roof of the Sechelt Seniors Centre. These companions and repeaters form an invisible radio web called a mesh network – so Meshcore. The phone app controls sending and receiving of short text messages from the companion, which is a radio. The Salish Sea of BC’s Lower Mainland already is the 3rd most-dense mesh in the world! Your Meshcore radio-based text message can hop from Sechelt to repeaters on high ground on Vancouver Island, and from there to the entire BC mainland, and farther.

It’s like an area-wide telephone tree, only much better, because if cell phone towers go down, Meshcore won’t.
Because a Meshcore companion (see photos below) is inexpensive, low power, and requires no license, cellular or Internet connections, it’s an ideal off-grid alternative to provide backup communications in an emergency or in back-country locations that don’t have other communication coverage.

Why is it so helpful?

  • Simple to use – Once set up, it works like sending a text message. Your cell phone connects to
    your companion via Bluetooth, so no need for internet or cell service.
  • Small and portable – Devices are typically pocket-sized and easy to carry or keep at home.
  • Low cost – Compared to many communication systems, Meshcore devices are $40-$75 each..
  • Reliable in emergencies – Because it doesn’t depend on large infrastructure, it keeps working
    when other systems fail.

How does it work locally?

Here on the Sunshine Coast, a group of local amateur (ham) radio volunteers is building a Meshcore network that will allow residents—from Sechelt and surrounding communities—to stay connected.

These volunteers will:

  • Help you choose an affordable device
  • Set it up for you
  • Show you how to use it like other apps on your phone (no technical background needed!)

Once you’re set up, your device becomes part of the growing local mesh network.

What can you do with it?

  • Send short messages to friends and family
  • Check in during emergencies
  • Stay informed about local conditions
  • Help build a stronger, more connected community

Is it difficult to learn?

Not at all. If you can use a basic cellphone, you can use Meshcore. The goal is to keep everything as simple and stress-free as possible—especially for those who aren’t interested in complicated technology.

A community effort

One of the best parts of Meshcore is that it’s built by the community, for the community. The more people who join, the stronger and more reliable the network becomes. Whether you live alone, with family, or in a condominium residence, having a simple backup way to communicate can bring peace of mind.

Interested in knowing more?

Attend the free information meeting on May 12th at 2:00 p.m. in the SSAC lunchroom, no registration or membership required. Local volunteers will demonstrate how Meshcore works and answer your questions. Staying connected doesn’t have to be complicated—or expensive. With Meshcore, it can be as easy as carrying a small device and knowing your community and loved ones are just a message away.

Because when everything else goes down, staying in touch shouldn’t.