OCA2021-04 - 2021 Digital Inclusion Funding Request for Proposals (RFP)

The purpose of these funds is to support community-based organizations purchase technology devices, pay for outstanding phone and Wi-Fi bills for young people in need. Funding will also support WIFI and phone plans for up to one year. The Digital Inclusion funds will also support community-based organizations that provide digital training to young people, providing technical assistance to caregivers and youth on how to use and navigate technology and who are making sure that any technology provided is accessible for English learners and for youth with disabilities.
Closing the digital divide is critical not only to ensuring educational equity, but to ensure young people
and their families have the ability to access important health and safety information, conduct job
searches, and more. Many families facing financial challenges brought on by the pandemic-induced
health and economic crisis do not have the resources to invest in computers or internet subscriptions.
OCA recognizes that internet connectivity and adequate devices are a necessity, not a luxury. And the
cost of providing our young people with these necessities is well within our reach.