Comcast, an ECCF Corporate Partner, is dedicated to bridging the digital divide.
A commitment to supporting communities by bridging the digital divide
At Comcast, effective corporate philanthropy includes giving back to the local communities in which its employees live and work. That’s why the global media and technology company has long partnered with ECCF to support the foundation’s mission of strengthening the 34 cities and towns of Essex County.
“While our relationship dates back approximately 15 years, initially supporting those who help individuals and families succeed through social services, Comcast and ECCF also share a steadfast commitment to advancing digital equity in Essex County,” said Tim Murnane, vice president of government affairs and community impact for Comcast’s Northeast Division. “That shared commitment has served to advance our collaborative partnership.”
Long before the COVID-19 pandemic revealed to all of us the true breadth of the digital divide, Comcast was offering affordable high-speed internet access to low-income households through its Internet Essentials program. But this is only one piece of Comcast’s $1 billion commitment to digital equity through Project UP, the company’s comprehensive initiative to advance digital equity and help build a future of Unlimited Possibilities. Project UP encompasses programs and community partnerships across Comcast and its subsidiaries, 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. Project UP also includes Lift Zones, which are spaces in community centers that provide free Internet access and the digital skills training needed to unlock opportunity.
“Comcast created Lift Zones to help combat digital inequities and connect more families to essential resources like Digital Navigators: tech experts who can assist people with getting online, using devices. and acquiring digital skills,” said Murnane.
To date, Comcast has worked with nonprofits and community organizations to install more than 1,250 Lift Zones nationwide, including some right here in Essex County in partnership with ECCF. The impact of this work has been, in many cases, life changing.
For example, the Boys & Girls Clubs in Lawrence and Salisbury reported in a survey that Lift Zones were a game changer for members to do homework online at the club.
Since the founding of Comcast 60 years ago, giving back has been a part of the company’s DNA. Comcast’s support helps to lay the foundation for a better future for all.
“As a media and technology company, we are committed to using the power of our platforms, our people, and our reach to create positive change and a more equitable society,” said Murnane. “By supporting local communities, we can help create a world of unlimited possibilities so together, we can build a future that benefits generations to come.”
