This content was originally published by the Longmont Observer and is licensed under a Creative Commons license.
On Jan. 18, 2019, NextLight announced that they have partnered with the Longmont Community Foundation and Longmont Children, Youth and Families to assist in bridging the digital divide in Longmont.
According to a press release from Longmont Power & Communications, "'Sharing the NextLight' provides a free NextLight connection to qualifying low-income Longmont
families with children in the St. Vrain Valley Schools. The families would receive a free
symmetrical 25-megabit connection to their home, along with a combined modem/wireless
router."
"Sharing the NextLight" is available to families with children in grades K-12 in the St. Vrain School District (SVVSD) who reside within NextLight's service area. To qualify, families must also be eligible for the free and reduced lunch assistance program in SVVSD.
Applications for the program should be submitted to Longmont Children, Youth & Families.
“For those with limited access to resources, a digital divide can have an impact on their potential for success,” Christina Sims of Longmont Children, Youth & Families said. “Our partnership with Longmont Power & Communications and with the Longmont Community Foundation is essential to addressing this divide in our community. We look forward to the support that 'Sharing the NextLight' will offer to students and families!”
The program currently has enough funds to support 20 families who will receive services beginning in March 2019. The goal of the program is to serve at least 100 Longmont families. A donation fund has been established through the Longmont Community Foundation to raise $60,000 by July 1, 2019. If the goal is met, the 100 qualifying families will receive NextLight service in time for the 2019-2020 school year.
“'Sharing the NextLight' fits so well with our mission of improving the community for all,” said Eric Hozempa, director of the Longmont Community Foundation. “'Sharing the NextLight' will help low-income students use the technology tools they need and not run the risk of falling behind their peers. We’re honored to play a part in helping these families succeed.”
To support the program, donors should go to www.longmontfoundation.org,
click on “Donate” and then choose “Sharing the NextLight.” All donations are tax-deductible.
“The internet is more vital to students than ever, and to support their child’s academic success, families ideally should have a fast and reliable connection in their own homes,” acting LPC general manager Susan Wisecup said. “We’re glad to help provide this, and in so doing, bring part of the City Council’s work plan for 2019 to fruition. "Sharing the NextLight" showcases our community’s willingness to support neighbors in need, allowing these families to benefit from the fiber-optic network that has made Longmont the first Gig City in Colorado.”
