Comcast recently announced a donation of $50,000 and 60 laptops to the Greater Flint Health Coalition (GFHC) to help residents in GFHC’s Flint Healthcare Employment Opportunities (FHEO) program get and stay connected to the digital world.
The grant will be used by GFHC to host digital skills development sessions by trained digital navigators who will educate participants about broadband adoption and the many ways the internet can benefit them. Participants will also learn about the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) that makes Internet in the home free for eligible households. Digital navigators are trusted voices in the community who help residents connect to free and low-cost internet options and learn how to build their digital skills.
“The lack of digital skills and reliable equipment can keep residents from applying for jobs and accessing education opportunities,” said Jim Ananich, President and CEO of Greater Flint Health Coalition. Ananich added: “The funding from Comcast will make it easier for our program participants to connect to the internet and take advantage of the services they need to succeed.”
As GFHC’s oldest program and the sole designated healthcare service provider in Genesee County by GST Michigan Works! FHEO helps unemployed or underemployed residents in Genesee County get training, education and ultimately secure sustainable employment in the local healthcare sector. Tuition, healthcare career exploration training, job development assistance and more are included in the program. Eligibility requirements include demonstrating circumstances that make it difficult to focus on career transition.
“Our partnership with Greater Flint Health Coalition will give Flint residents the resources to flourish in today’s digital age,” said Ben Miller, Director of Government and Regulatory Affairs for Comcast in Michigan.
Miller added: “Supporting our local communities is core to Comcast’s DNA and we’re proud to partner with the FHEO program to help increase digital literacy and access in the region.”
The grant to GFHC is part of Project UP, Comcast’s comprehensive initiative to advance digital equity and help build a future of unlimited possibilities. Backed by a $1 billion commitment to reach tens of millions of people, Project UP encompasses the programs and community partnerships across Comcast, NBCUniversal and Sky that connect people to the internet, advance economic mobility and open doors for the next generation of innovators, entrepreneurs, storytellers and creators.
