Whether you're doing homework, searching for a job, or looking into ways to further your education and improve your life, it's essential that you have access to a computer and internet service these days.

For many in our community, obtaining a reliable computer and web connection can prove difficult. That's where non-profits PC's for People and Mobile Beacon come in.

The groups teamed up with the United Way in Temple Saturday for Bridging the Gap: an effort to distribute computers and mobile hotspots with three months of unlimited internet access to low-income families in Central Texas.

“The opportunities and access to technology that PCs for People and Mobile Beacon will provide to our students and their families are invaluable,” Belton ISD Board of Trustees President Sue M. Jordan said. “We are incredibly grateful for our long-time partnership with the United Way of Central Texas and appreciate them for being the powerful connector that brought us all together in support of our community.”

“Although we have been able to close the digital divide within our school buildings, it is still an obstacle for some of our students when they leave. Bridging the Gap is an initiative that helps support a seamless transition between school and home, which ultimately gives our students an equal advantage as a learner. Further, this provides an opportunity for our committed parents to monitor their student’s success online,” Dr. Bobby Ott, Temple Independent School District Superintendent.

Our partners at News 10 were there to film the event, which had quite a big turnout.



As I mentioned above, it's more important than ever that people have regular internet access in order to apply for new job opportunities, further their education, and stay connected to the world.

About United Way of Central Texas:

In order to improve lives in Central Texas, United Way of Central Texas focuses on the four building blocks of life: Education, Financial Stability, Health and Basic Needs. A healthy community learns well, earns well, and lives well. Through initiatives and investments guided by community volunteers, United Way of Central Texas advances the common good in conjunction with its many partner agencies and community impact partners.

About Mobile Beacon:

Mobile Beacon provides high-speed, low-cost, mobile internet access to the anchors of communities: the nonprofits, schools, libraries, and healthcare organizations that provide vital services to millions of Americans every day. Through this broadband service, organizations have an essential tool to fulfill their missions and maximize their philanthropic impact, which allows organizations to access more information, reach more people, and help more in their communities. Learn more at www.mobilebeacon.org.

About PCs for People:

Since 1998, PCs for People has been a driving force behind digital inclusion efforts across the US. We are a self-sustainable 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a national reach. Self-sustainability is driven by our four step approach - Source, Refurbish, Distribute, and Support. With strong partnerships and dedicated staff, 250,000+ computers have been distributed, 128,000+ homes have internet access, and millions of pounds of electronics have been responsibly recycled. Our corporate services include secure IT asset disposition and AAA NAID certified data sanitization. Learn more at www.pcsforpeople.org.

Get our free mobile app

More From KSSM-FM