Anne Arundel County, Md., will use grant funding to distribute 7,000 Chromebook devices to eligible county residents in an effort to close the digital divide. Funding for the program comes from the state’s Connected Devices Program under the State Department of Housing and Community Development.
“With our students participating in virtual learning and many families working remotely, closing the digital divide has become increasingly important,” said County Executive Steuart Pittman. “I want to thank AACPL for their continued partnership in initiatives that help empower our communities by increasing access to important tools and resources.”
Qualifying residents can receive one Chromebook per household. Eligibility is based on financial need and/or participation in existing government assistance programs, including the Federal Communications Commission’s Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP).
Distribution of the devices will be managed by the Anne Arundel County Public Library (AACPL). The county noted that distribution events will be held at each of the library’s 16 locations now through June.
“Libraries are community connectors. We use our resources and partnerships to help people live better lives and build stronger communities,” said AACPL CEO Skip Auld. “We are proud to work with Anne Arundel County to put these devices in the hands of those who need them most.”
