Governor Moore Announces $27 Million to Improve Internet Access for Underserved Households Across Md

Governor Wes Moore announced some great news! They're giving out over 133,000 laptops to 27 local governments and their partners in Maryland. This $27.2 million investment, thanks to the Office of Statewide Broadband's Connected Devices Program, aims to help families in underserved communities get access to the internet. It's all about making sure everyone in Maryland has the tech they need for reliable, high-speed internet. Cool, right?

Photo byGovWesMoore Twitter

“These devices are a gateway for Marylanders to be able to apply for jobs, complete schoolwork and connect with vital community resources,” said Gov. Moore. “In partnership with local governments and community organizations, we are connecting underserved households with the tools they need to succeed and to connect with more opportunities.”

The Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development, home to the Office of Statewide Broadband, gave grants to all 27 places that asked for them. They requested anywhere from 10 to 30,000 devices. The awards happened in two rounds, one in February 2023 and the other in October 2023. And get this – most of them got extra funds to cover the costs of handing out the devices!

“Through the Office of Statewide Broadband, the Moore-Miller Administration is working to bring high-speed internet to all corners of Maryland,” said Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development Secretary Jake Day. “In addition to our infrastructure improvements that are bringing underserved communities online, the Office and our Department are focused on closing the digital divide.”

The department teamed up with HP, Inc. and Daly Computers to give out around 135,000 Chromebooks all over Maryland. But that's not all – they also joined forces with the University of Maryland's TechExtension. These tech wizards are offering free one-on-one support through their digital navigator program to anyone in Maryland who needs a hand with their device. How cool is that?

“As a technology solution provider serving the State of Maryland for the past 35 years, Daly is truly honored and pleased that it has distributed over 133,000 laptops across the State to Maryland to families in need of technology,” said Daly President Ryan Yu. “Bridging the digital divide is a key component to helping families gain access to the digital economy and future opportunities.”

“HP is partnering with the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development and Daly Computers to provide equitable access to technology, connectivity, and digital skills for thousands of Maryland residents,” said HP Public Sector Mid Atlantic Area District Manager for Malinda Lindsey. “We are looking forward to continuing to work together to address the digital divide and foster positive outcomes for future generations.”

To view the full list of local governments and community partners that received devices, please visit here.

For more information on the Office of Statewide Broadband, please visit here.

Disclaimer: This article is only for informational & educational purposes.