The Los Angeles Post

COUNTY HELPS TO BRIDGE DIGITAL DIVIDE FOR HUD-ASSISTED RESIDENTS

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ConnectHomeUSA to Provide Internet, Devices, and Training

Alhambra, CA, October 8, 2020 – The Los Angeles County Development Authority (LACDA) was successful in its application to become a ConnectHomeUSA member to provide the County’s public housing residents and Housing Choice Voucher tenants access to free or low-cost internet, devices, and digital skills training.

“The digital divide is holding back families now more than ever before,” said Supervisor Janice Hahn. “It is preventing them from working from home, doing distance learning, or even safely connecting with their loved ones. With this partnership, we are going to be able to help 25,000 low income families get online – starting with Carmelitos residents in Long Beach.”

Internet access at home is a challenge for many families with limited means. According to the Public Policy Institute of California, 22% of low-income households with school-age children in California do not have any internet connection at home, and 48% reported no broadband subscription at home. Nearly half of these households said cost was the main barrier.

ConnectHomeUSA, administered through the national non-profit EveryoneOn, is working to close the digital divide for U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) assisted housing residents by creating a platform for community leaders, local governments, non-profit organizations, and private industry to join together and produce locally-tailored solutions.

“We’re thankful for this opportunity to partner with ConnectHomeUSA. At a time where everything is going digital – work, school, and even family and social gatherings – it’s important to break down the digital barrier and ensure equal access for all of our residents,” Emilio Salas, LACDA Acting Executive Director, said.

The LACDA will partner with the YMCA of Long Beach to launch the program at the Carmelitos Public Housing Community and offer digital training. The three-year program will then expand to more than 25,000 households, including at 41 public housing communities, managed by the LACDA, as well as residents who have a Housing Choice Voucher.