More North Carolinians Able to Get Online, Thanks to Partnership Between State Division of Broadband and Digital Equity and NC 211

The NCDIT Division of Broadband of Digital Equity today announced a partnership with NC 211 to help individuals anywhere in the state access community resources that support internet affordability, access to computers and digital devices, digital skills and literacy, tech support and free Wi-Fi.

Raleigh

Nov 19, 2024

North Carolinians will now be able to access community resources that support internet affordability, access to computers and digital devices, digital skills and literacy, tech support and free Wi-Fi with one call thanks to a partnership between the N.C. Department of Information Technology's (NCDIT) Division of Broadband and Digital Equity and NC 211. NC 211 is an information and referral service powered by United Way of North Carolina and 47 local United Ways that offers free and confidential information to callers on health and human services within their local communities.

"NC 211 is a key member of our state's Emergency Response Team providing residents with vital information about local services for more than five years," Governor Roy Cooper said. "Their work with NCDIT highlights how essential connectivity and access to online resources are for all North Carolinians."

United Way's NC 211 service connects callers to verified sources for basic needs, such as housing and utility assistance, food, healthcare and transportation. In addition, it now offers digital skills assessments, help setting up an email address, locations of libraries that offer free Wi-Fi or a computer lab and sites for upcoming computer skills classes. Their service is available in most languages and is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.

"The devastation caused by Hurricane Helene has underscored how challenging it is when you cannot access online information and services," said NCDIT Secretary and State Chief Information Officer Jim Weaver. "Partnering with NC 211 helps us connect North Carolinians to services they need to safely get online to work remotely, access educational resources and use telehealth."

"United Way of North Carolina is thrilled to partner with NCDIT to bring new opportunities through our Digital Equity and Literacy program. This collaboration strengthens our commitment to ensuring all North Carolinians have access to the digital skills and resources they need to thrive," said President and CEO of United Way of North Carolina/NC 211 Brittany Pruitt Fletcher. "By working together, we are breaking down barriers and empowering individuals and families to connect, learn and grow in today's digital world."

Anyone in North Carolina can dial 2-1-1 or 888-892-1162 for a free and confidential call with a trained community resource specialist that will listen, identify needs and connect them to local resources that offer solutions to fit their situation.

For more information about the NCDIT Division of Broadband and Digital Equity and Governor Cooper's plan to close the digital divide, please visit ncbroadband.gov. For more information about United Way of North Carolina/NC 211, please visit nc211.org.

Cristalle Dickerson

[email protected]

(919) 274-2729