Ernst & Young LLP (EY US) helps bridge the digital divide
January 14, 2021
The digital divide is the gap between students with and without access to computers and internet connections. This problem became apparent at the onset of COVID-19 and the requirement of remote online learning. Many students simply do not have the proper hardware, connectivity and adult mentoring support to learn and perform at their full potential. This disconnect from online learning disproportionately impacts low-income US families, especially underserved Black and Latinx students:
- 35% of low income US homes with children do not have high-speed internet
- 25% of low income students do not have a desktop or laptop computer at home
- 35% of students without mentors are less likely to enroll in college
As part of our anti-racism commitment, we are combating these systemic inequalities in education through our Bridging the Digital Divide initiative. We are teaming with public and private organizations in 70 US cities so that underserved K–12 students can gain access to digital devices and broadband connectivity. EY professionals also help underserved students through online mentorship programs like College MAP, so young people can develop the knowledge and skills they need to thrive in the digital age.
The good news is that we’ve been making significant progress. To date, we have:
- Raised $1.5 million through the United Way
- Raised $4.5 million through our convening power in cities like Charlotte and San Jose
- Initiated collaborations with several major global corporations and local non-profits to provide hardware and connectivity to students
Our goal is to positively impact 1.5 million lives and deliver 40,000 mentoring hours. You can learn more, including how you can help, by visiting the Bridging the Digital Divide site.