The digital divide existed before COVID-19, but the pandemic has exacerbated the effects both due to increases in poverty caused by loss of income, as well as the increased need to interact virtually to connect with family and friends, access social services, health care and crisis supports and to go to school and work. Additionally, some populations have a more heightened need for devices and connectivity due to safety reasons such as living in an abusive or violent situation or living with homelessness.
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 (including Guelph CHC) 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.
Click here to view the Digital Access Guide.
Guelph CHC is a lead member of the Guelph Wellington Digital Equity Coalition. To learn more about the coalition’s work please visit https://gwdigitalequity.ca/ or view the coalition’s Transformative Change Award video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dC-t44rSftQ
For more information about how to get involved in the Guelph Wellington Digital Equity Coalition, contact kcumming@guelphchc.ca.
