Harlem Children’s Zone Joins ‘One Million Connected Devices Now’ Movement to Bridge Digital Divide

 
The shift to online learning has disrupted education for students across the country. But for communities of color, the challenge is particularly acute. Long-standing inequities have left many communities without access to technologies — including laptops and Wi-Fi connections — needed to engage in online learning. That is what One Million Devices Now was created to address.

Putting Devices in the Hands of Students

As a partner in One Million Connected Devices Now — part of the national Take on Race initiative — HCZ is helping to lead Phase One of a multi-phase initiative whose ultimate goal is to put 1 million connected devices in the hands of students across the country. HCZ will manage the execution of Phase One in seven markets: New York City, Atlanta, Chicago, Detroit, Minneapolis, Newark, and Oakland.
 

Building on COVID-19 Relief and Recovery

The movement builds on HCZ’s current work, beginning when the pandemic struck in March, to partner with high-performing nonprofits to support our COVID-19 Relief and Recovery Effort in Harlem and six communities across the country.

This includes bridging the digital divide, providing emergency financial relief, protecting our most vulnerable, achieving zero learning loss, and mitigating mental health crises. Phase One of One Million Connected Devices Now was made possible through a $25 million investment that includes contributions from P&G, Dell Technologies, Dow Jones, PNC Bank, and Walmart, among others. The companies are inviting others to help address the digital divide.

To get involved, visit Take on Race.