GrowSmart Maine Awards $60,000 to Enhance Digital Equity and Opportunity in Kennebec County
In 2024, GrowSmart Maine, through its Kennebec Broadband Partnership, awarded nearly $60,000 to local nonprofits and libraries across Kennebec County to advance digital equity and opportunity. The Digital Equity Stipends will support 14 organizations working to bridge the digital divide by helping local residents access technology, learn essential computer skills, acquire devices, and receive vital technical support.
Among the recipients are libraries in Readfield, Augusta, China Village, Oakland, Mt. Vernon, Gardiner, and Vassalboro. These libraries will use the funds to enhance their public computer offerings, purchase accessibility tools such as loanable keyboards, establish remote workspaces for patrons, and provide much-needed tech support to the community.
Additionally, the following groups are using their funds to make a meaningful impact:
Bridging the Gap in Augusta is establishing a Telehealth Access Point with devices and equipment for remote healthcare services.
Literacy Volunteers of Kennebec and the Family Violence Project have partnered to provide technology and computer training to survivors of domestic violence, offering critical resources to rebuild their lives.
The Alfond Youth & Community Center is supporting its Computer Club, where local youth learn to repair, refurbish, and redistribute recycled desktop computers to those in need.
The Prison Education Partnership at the University of Maine, Augusta, has received funds to provide devices to students reentering society after incarceration. For many of these students, access to technology is key to continuing their education and rebuilding their futures.
One participant of the Prison Education Partnership shared the profound impact of the stipend:
“After being released from a minimum-security facility, I faced many unknowns—how would I reintegrate into society after nearly 10 years? A new laptop would have been an added financial burden when I needed essentials for my re-entry. Having the laptop and support when I needed it most was crucial to my success. There are no words to express my gratitude. Thank you for your generosity.”
GrowSmart Maine will again offer Digital Equity Stipends in 2025. The Kennebec Broadband Partnership is funded by the Maine Connectivity Authority and is the Regional and Wabanaki Partner for Kennebec County.