GUELPH – For community members without access to digital devices and wifi services, the world is becoming more difficult to navigate.
It’s a problem known as “digital equity,” and a group of community partners have launched a tool to help keep community members connected.
The Guelph Wellington Digital Equity Coalition has created a resource for community members in need of digital supports like internet hotspots, devices and skill building. The digital access guide is a direct response to community members who have requested a tool to help them access the digital supports they need.
“Everything from medical appointments to job applications have moved to digital formats, and there are many community members who do not have the skills or wifi access to fully participate in these exchanges,” says coalition chair Jen Lisso.
“We are grateful for the community members who brought this need to our attention so that we can continue to advocate for better access to bridge the digital divide.”
The Digital Access Guide will be updated regularly.
Community agencies who have digital resources to share and who would like to be featured in the guide are encouraged to reach out to the coalition via the website.
To view the guide, visit gwdigitalequity.ca or any coalition member’s website.
Hard copies are also avail-able at coalition member offices.
The launch of the guide compliments Digital Equity Day, one of the themes of this year’s Community Health and Wellbeing Week, which was celebrated by Guelph Community Health Centre and over 100 other members of the Alliance for Healthier Communities from October 16 to 22.
Members of the Guelph Wellington Digital Equity Coalition include Guelph Community Health Centre, the City of Guelph’s Local Immigration Partnership, Guelph Wellington Poverty Task Force, United Way, ARCH, Guelph Tool Library, Guelph Public Library, Wellington County Library, University of Guelph, County of Wellington, Action Read, Guelph Neighbourhood Support Coalition and the Alliance for Healthier Communities.
