CME forges partnership for internet access
After months of planning, Community-Minded Enterprises (CME) announced a partnership with Spokane Public Schools (SPS), the Washington Childcare Centers Association (WCCA) and Comcast to furnish reliable internet to thousands of school age children by bringing Lift Zones to Spokane County child care providers, so they better connect to online learning at no cost.
"We knew there was need," said Lee Williams, CEO of CME. "Child care sites weren't prepared for internet usage needed for online learning when COVID-19 hit. We had to do something so children wouldn't be left behind."
Installation of Lift Zones began in late November.
Kris Workman, senior director, Comcast in Spokane, said: "These safe spaces can offer families support when at-home connectivity is either not available or a student is unable to participate at home."
Working with nonprofit partners and city leaders, Comcast is providing WiFi in facilities to help students go online, participate in distance learning and do their schoolwork.
For information, visit www.community-minded.org.
Copyright@ The Fig Tree, January, 2021
