Curated News
By: NewsRamp Editorial Staff
May 08, 2024
WDC and Comcast Collaborate to Bridge the Digital Divide in Seattle-King County
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- Comcast's generous donation of $60,000 provides an advantage for the deployment of Digital Navigators, ensuring equitable access to technology.
- Digital Navigators, trained individuals, will help people access the internet, use devices, and build digital skills to bridge the digital divide.
- The effort to utilize Digital Navigators and expand high-speed internet access signifies a collective commitment to bridging the digital divide and fostering inclusivity.
- Comcast's Project UP initiative has launched more than 90 Lift Zones in Washington to provide free robust WiFi hotspots for students and families.
Impact - Why it Matters
The partnership between WDC and Comcast to deploy Digital Navigators and support digital equity is crucial in addressing the digital divide and ensuring that underserved communities have access to essential resources. The BEAD Program's allocation of $1.2 billion to Washington will significantly impact job seekers from underserved communities, equipping them with the skills needed to secure quality jobs created by the funding. This initiative ultimately aims to empower individuals and communities by providing increased access to services such as Telehealth, Employment, Education, and Training.
Summary
The Workforce Development Council of Seattle-King County (WDC), in collaboration with digital equity partners and Comcast, is deploying Digital Navigators to bridge the digital divide and prepare for upcoming BEAD-supported programs. The BEAD Program will provide $42 billion to expand high-speed internet access across the nation, with Washington receiving $1.2 billion. Digital Navigators are critical to closing the digital divide and reducing socioeconomic inequalities, and the contribution by Comcast will support the deployment of two Digital Navigators at WorkSource locations.
The partnership with WDC is part of Comcast's Project UP, a $1 billion initiative to advance digital equity nationwide. The initiative includes the Internet Essentials program, which provides affordable home internet for qualifying households, low-cost computers, and free internet training. This collaboration signifies a collective commitment to fostering inclusivity and ensuring that the benefits of technology reach all corners of the community.
Source Statement
This curated news summary relied on this press release disributed by News Direct. Read the source press release here, WDC and Comcast Collaborate to Bridge the Digital Divide in Seattle-King County
