This holiday season brought a heartwarming surprise to members and families at the Boys & Girls Club of Boone County. On December 19, Comcast teamed up with the Club to donate 200 laptops, ensuring that children and families have the tools they need to stay connected during winter break and beyond.
The laptops were distributed to members and families who participate in programs at the Whitestown and Lebanon Units of the Boys & Girls Club of Boone County. These programs, which include after-school care and year-round activities, focus on leadership, recreation, and academic success.
Eric Richards, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Boone County, highlighted the importance of this gift: “During the holiday season, students who typically utilize laptops at school can be dependent on just a cell phone for internet access at home. Partnerships with organizations like Comcast are essential to enabling young people — especially those who need us most — to continue to develop digital skills, complete homework outside of the classroom, and help us make sure students can reach their full potential.”
Research underscores the significance of this donation. A report from Michigan State University revealed that students who rely solely on cell phones for internet access, or who lack reliable home internet, are more likely to face academic challenges and struggle to stay connected. Comcast’s donation directly addresses these challenges, empowering students to thrive.
This initiative is part of Comcast’s broader efforts to close the digital divide in Indiana and across the country. In Boone County, Comcast has partnered with state and local officials to invest in communities that need fast, reliable broadband service the most. Recently, Comcast announced a $55 million joint investment with the state of Indiana to expand internet services in rural and underserved areas, including Boone County.
“Increasing digital equity unleashes the potential of high-speed internet at home — even more so when school is out of session,” said Craig D’Agostini, Comcast vice president, government & regulatory affairs. “We’re proud to continue to partner with Boone County in closing the digital divide, and to provide the latest technology and connectivity in a way that benefits everyone.”
The laptop donation is part of Project UP, Comcast’s 10-year, $1 billion initiative to advance digital equity in the communities it serves. In Indiana, Comcast’s efforts also include:
- Internet Essentials: Providing low-cost, high-speed broadband service to eligible low-income households. To date, the program has connected more than 770,000 individuals in Indiana, including students, seniors, veterans, and people with disabilities.
- Lift Zones: Operating over 18 Lift Zones across Indiana, which offer free high-speed Wi-Fi in safe spaces for kids and adults to access remote learning, build digital skills, and more.
- Community Investment: Over the past three years, Comcast has contributed more than $3.8 million in cash and in-kind donations to Indiana-based organizations focused on fostering digital equity.
This remarkable partnership between Comcast and the Boys & Girls Club of Boone County is an inspiring example of how collaboration can create lasting impact. As students unwrap their new laptops and log on, they’re opening doors to opportunities that will help them thrive academically and personally, today and into the future.
*Information provided by Comcast Public Relations Department