The digital divide

The "digital divide," or the lack of knowledge of and access to computers, the internet, etc. by low-income families is a barrier for both the parents and the children to get ahead in today's world.

A few years back, a family that I was involved with an a volunteer capacity lived in Ellington, where the school system refused to believe that the children did not have access to a computer and printer to do their homework!  But when you're struggling to put food on the table, who has money for a computer or internet access?

I was glad to learn today that Comcast has started a new program called Internet Essentials℠, a program to address key barriers to Internet access and adoption by providing affordable Internet access, the opportunity to purchase a computer and training to low-income families with at least one child receiving free lunch under the National School Lunch Program. 

For more information on Internet Essentials℠ from Comcast and the enrollment process, please visit http://www.internetessentials.com/.  School Districts and other community organizations looking to get involved can sign up on our partner portal, http://www.internetessentials.com//partner, for all the information, materials and updates needed to help spread the word and keep the momentum going.