The Providence Housing Authority (PHA) not only provides safe, affordable housing, its mission includes addressing residents’ economic needs and offering a bridge to a better future. But one-fifth of their residents don’t have Internet access at home – a key tool in finding and applying for jobs, signing up for an affordable healthcare plan, and continuing education.
Barriers to access include both financial and technical limitations. Most residents cannot afford equipment or access, and a lack of experience with basic computer skills limited residents in the job search process, as many companies now only communicate with job seekers online. “Companies may be hiring, but you have to apply online and that’s where the fear comes in,” said Sorrel Devine, Director for the PHA’s Department of Resident Services.
Community partners came together to help PHA develop the “Get Connected” digital literacy initiative, an innovative public-private partnership between the PHA, Broadband Rhode Island (BBRI), and Mobile Beacon. The program connects low-income residents with the resources they need to succeed in our digital society.
Get Connected’s first pilot program involved 25 adults in the Manton Heights housing community in Olneyville, giving them digital literacy training and long-term access to technology. The initiative was a multi-layer solution that included:
The results have been nothing short of transformative. Devine reports students overcame their fear of computers and the Internet in just a few classes. One resident who took the class quickly enhanced her job search skills and landed a job offer. And for many residents, this program is the first time they have owned a computer and enjoyed private Internet access.
Housing authorities and other nonprofits interested in developing similar programs can enroll
for free as a nonprofit partner with EveryoneOn and receive the following benefits:
A happy “Get Connected” graduate with Senator Pichardo, Instructor Victor Ramos & PHA Coordinator Jose Luis Suazo
To get started, register your organization at http://www.everyoneon.org/mb-partner..
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