Comcast’s Digital Equity Network is an interconnected group of organizations in the Pacific Northwest that have a connection with each other and work collectively toward a common purpose to increase access and adoption of the internet, help people get online, build digital skills and open doors to economic mobility. Each day during, National Digital Inclusion Week, Oct. 2-6, 2023, we are highlighting local digital equity partners, resources and activities aimed at bridging the digital divide in the Pacific Northwest.
Today, we are pleased to showcase the work of Seattle Housing Authority (SHA). As a member of our Digital Equity Network, SHA enhances the Seattle community by creating and sustaining decent, safe and affordable living environments that foster stability and self-sufficiency for people with low incomes.
A critical partner in bridging the digital divide in Seattle, Comcast has been working with SHA to bring awareness of Internet Essentials and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) to all residents through events, Digital Navigator cohorts and sponsorship of a new Lift Zone at the Epstein Learning Center that supports the digital skills classes and programming in the Yesler Community. Comcast also participates through staff education sessions and participation in community council meetings. SHA received a $1.8M grant from the WA State Dept of Commerce Broadband Office to expand their Digital Navigator program through June 2022, with additional funding provided this year to continue the program. This funding helped to support hiring 14 Digital Navigators and laptops for residents.
The partnership between Comcast and SHA marches on throughout this October as SHA digital navigators will be assisting families to navigate the Seattle Public Schools online portal, how to complete forms, and offering tech support. Comcast will be present to share information and connect residents with Internet Essentials and ACP.
#DIW2023
