The background
According to a Dec. 12 news release, the funding will support grassroots nonprofit organizations that are dedicated to providing digital resources in communities experiencing a lack of access to reliable, affordable, high-speed digital devices and internet services.
Six of the announced recipients of MHMST funding are based in San Antonio:
- Family Service offers wraparound services, such as job assistance, mental welfare and early childhood support, for individuals and families in need.
- Girls Inc. of San Antonio helps girls ages 6-18 overcome barriers to achieve personal, educational and professional success.
- Empower House San Antonio aims to improve women’s reproductive health services and access.
- Family Violence Prevention Services operates the Battered Women and Children’s Shelter of San Antonio.
- Mission Road Ministries serves more than 650 children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities with residential, day activity services and vocational programs.
- Restore Education offers free educational services for individuals wanting to finish their basic education and seek an alternative career pathway.
What they’re saying
MHMST officials said this round of funding is designed to boost health equity efforts and ensure all people in their service region have access to reliable, affordable broadband service. According to MHMST representatives, having such internet service can enable people to better support their economic, health and social needs.
"We believe that by investing in advancing digital equity, we are not just helping communities to bridge the digital divide, but are also empowering them to access opportunities, connect with vital resources and take charge of their well-being,” MHMST President and CEO Jaime Wesolowski said in a statement.
