A recent Pew Research Center survey conducted in early April finds that roughly half of U.S. adults (53%) say the internet has been essential for them during the pandemic but as Americans turn to the internet in search of resources, critical information, news updates and even for schoolwork, there has been renewed concern surrounding the digital divide.
According to American Community Survey Data for LA County, approximately 210,000 children have a computer at home but lack an Internet connection.
Last week, L.A. County took a step forward in bridging the gap of Internet access — an issue that during the COVID-19 pandemic can quickly become a matter of survival, according to Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn.
Our new portal and outreach support, performed in partnership with 211 LA County, will equip LA County residents with a one-stop-shop approach to getting Internet access.”
The website features a search tool, based on the user’s physical address, to connect them to various Internet-related services, such as Internet access services for students, the location of free WiFi spots throughout the County (including free hotspots located in or nearby County libraries and County parks) and contact information for both residential and commercial broadband Internet providers and mobile (cellular) Internet providers serving the address.
