How to Cross the Digital Divide
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The Feb. 28 Business article "One Step Off the Superhighway" had it partly right and partly wrong. In fact, the Broadband Technology Opportunities Program contained in the stimulus package includes substantial funding for broadband access and adoption in urban areas as well as rural communities. The article correctly noted that demand for Internet access is high among low-income people but gave the impression that cost is the only barrier to adoption.
In addition to hardware, urban families need help with literacy-
appropriate training and content, and a lot of ongoing support to cross the digital divide. Giving families the ability to earn these services via "sweat equity" is a proven way to help them overcome the barriers to broadband adoption and incorporate the innumerable benefits of the online world into their daily lives.
The existing network of schools and other community-based organizations is an efficient channel for identifying and serving qualified families. Here in Philadelphia, this approach has helped young mothers, vulnerable high-schoolers, small businesses, job seekers and families of children with developmental disabilities earn technology packages by completing training programs.
GREG GOLDMAN
Philadelphia
The writer directs a nonprofit organization that helps poor families gain access to digital technology.
