Shawano Area United Way spent April hosting a series of Techquity WI device distribution events aimed at expanding digital access across its service area, working with partners SAM25, Safe Haven and the Shawano County Library.
They were also joined by staff from Capital Credit Union who talked to clients about financial literacy resources in the area.
Residents who applied and qualified received no-cost, loaned laptops and were enrolled in a digital navigation support program through a partnership with United Way Fox Cities, the organization said.
Techquity WI is a statewide device access and navigation initiative offered to eligible individuals through United Way of Wisconsin and local United Way partners.
So far, the program has helped distribute almost 70 devices in Shawano and Menominee counties to households that did not already have a computer at home and met additional eligibility requirements, including falling below the ALICE (asset limited, income constrained, employed) income threshold.
United Way said recipients have used the laptops for school and work, including adult learners pursuing degrees and certificates, a recent graduate launching a new business and a working parent returning to online college after struggling to balance family schedules with limited access to public computers.
Organizers pointed to rising costs as a barrier to reliable internet and computer access, even as online tools have become central to everyday tasks such as job searches, budgeting, education and routine work.
Learn more about Techquity WI at techquitywi.org.
