Dear Neighbor,

As a result of COVID-19 many aspects of work, school, healthcare, and even family time, have moved online. Getting connected to the internet has never been more important than it is today, and this in turn calls for immediate attention to the issue of the digital divide in our state. The internet access inequity that exists today means that not everyone has the high-speed broadband they need to meet the demands of current day-to-day life. Nearly one in five students in California couldn’t connect to the internet at the start of the pandemic, and that number becomes even higher in Latino, African American, rural and low-income communities.

Historic neglect of our most vulnerable communities has left too many people behind: that’s why I am working on legislation to deploy high-speed internet through future-proof broadband infrastructure that will help close the digital divide for good. My bill, SB 1130, will invest in future-proof broadband for high-need areas that will last for decades to come to help every Californian-whether they are a student doing coursework online, a grandparent in need of tele-health services or an employee working from home-have access to the high speed internet they need.

In addition to state-wide legislation, my office has also created a list of resources that offer free or low-cost devices and internet services to help you get connected.

• ConnectedLB: This platform is an online tool that helps Long Beach residents search for low-cost computers and internet services in their neighborhood by zip code and some may qualify for low-cost computers based on income. To find low cost internet options and computers in your area click here.
   
• Human I-T: A nonprofit organization that provides low-income individuals and nonprofits with technology, internet, and digital training. The organization helps families find low-cost internet ranging from $10-$25 per month for their home with no contract including options that offer a free chrome-book. For those who are on-the-go and would benefit more from a mobile service, the organization can assist in identifying available, low cost hot-spot options. Click here for more information.
   
• SCDC (Southeast Community Development Corporation): A nonprofit organization with the mission of promoting community health, education, and safety, providing economic development, and improving the standard of living for residents of Southeast Los Angeles. As part of their work, they help families find inexpensive wi-fi options starting at $10 per month, visit SCDC’s website here for more information.  
   
• Everyoneon: A nonprofit dedicated to creating social and economic opportunity by connecting low-income families to affordable internet service and computers and delivering digital skills trainings. Their comprehensive online tool identifies low cost internet and device offers as well as digital literacy training locations.  For more information, visit their website here.

If you have any questions on how to acquire devices or internet services, please contact my office at (562) 256-7921.

All my best,

Lena

State Senator, District 33