Press Release
The organizations receiving grants were chosen due to their commitment to digital equity, and the funds will support programs specifically designed to provide residents in Boston and surrounding communities with internet access and digital skill-building services.
BOSTON – Comcast announced that it will reach more than $1 million in investment this year in digital equity grants to 16 organizations in Greater Boston. Recipients include YMCA of Greater Boston, Urban League of Eastern Massachusetts, and Elder Services of Cape Cod. Comcast surprised Ethos with 120 new laptops to help further support its senior citizens during an event held at the Boston Centers for Youth & Families Hyde Park, one of Comcast’s 36 Lift Zones throughout the city.
This announcement is part of Project UP, Comcast’s $1 billion commitment to advance digital equity through programs and community partnerships that connect people to the internet, advance economic mobility, and open doors for the next generation of innovators, entrepreneurs, storytellers, and creators.
“More than a decade ago, Comcast set out to close the digital divide. We envisioned a network of community partners and programs that would empower neighborhoods – including those right here in Greater Boston – with the tools to thrive in the growing digital economy: broadband internet, access to a computer, and digital skills training,” said Broderick Johnson, Comcast’s executive vice president of public policy and executive vice president of digital equity. “Today’s announcement further underscores our longstanding shared commitment with these local nonprofits to help ensure residents can achieve unlimited possibilities.”
The recipient organizations will also use the funds to provide their members with digital skills and workforce development opportunities. Additionally, they will help residents learn about the Federal Government’s Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which provides eligible low-income households with a credit of up to $30 per month toward their internet and/or mobile service. Thanks to ACP, eligible Comcast customers can get home internet through Comcast’s Internet Essentials or Internet Essentials Plus at no cost once the federal credit is applied.
Ethos, one of the Boston-based grant recipients, will use the funds to support its Digital Aging Program, which provides Boston senior citizens with internet service connections at their homes, computer access, and individualized skill-building opportunities. Ethos program coordinators teach seniors how to use a laptop and search the internet for healthcare and other resources.
“We are deeply grateful for Comcast’s generous $75,000 contribution to our Digital Aging Program,” said Valerie Frias, CEO of Ethos. “We have a longstanding commitment to empowering older adults through technology, and the partnership between Comcast and Ethos has been vital to that effort, addressing critical equity and device access disparities in our community. Their support allows us to expand digital literacy training, helping seniors – especially those who have faced disparities – connect with family, access resources, and age with confidence. We look forward to our continued partnership in creating a more connected and enriching future for Boston’s seniors.”
