HUD + Higher Ed Engagement Learn more
The HUD + Higher Ed Engagement Network aims to build strong relationships between the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and higher education to create inclusive, sustainable, and thriving communities.
Briefing: Digital Equity
We're excited to partner with HUD to bring a new community engagement opportunity to our members focused on addressing digital equity for communities with limited broadband access.
Today, access to the internet is more important than ever. However, broadband can be hard to access, especially for historically marginalized communities. HUD is partnering with the FCC to promote the Affordable Connectivity Program to assist households who are struggling to afford internet access. Eligible participants include:
- Households at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines
- Those who received a Pell Grant during the current award year
- Those who meet eligibility criteria for a participating provider's low-income internet program
- One or more household members receive certain benefits, including Lifeline, SNAP, Medicaid, WIC, SSI, Federal Housing Assistance, Veteran's Benefits, Free and Reduced-Price School Food Programs
- Additional eligibility provisions are available for Tribal households
How to take action
We know that your institutions have been deeply involved in addressing digital equity, particularly since the pandemic, for both our students and local communities. Here are some ways to partner with HUD to build digital equity nationwide.
-
Donate hardware and devices to distribute at ACP enrollment events
-
Offer IT and digital skills training to community members
-
Promote the ACP program to community members through your local place-based activities
Seeking partnerships with priority communities
HUD Field Offices are seeking higher education partners in 68 priority communities with the highest level of need determined by Microsoft's Digital Equity Dashboard.
Campuses working with (or potential to work with) these communities should reach out [email protected] to get directly connected to a HUD digital equity charter team member to make an impact on digital equity. In your email, please provide information about the action items you can contribute to and any relevant background on existing or potential engagement with the target community.
Please note: You should not reach out to HUD field office or the housing partner directly. Emailing [email protected] is the first step!
Subscribe to future updates
Join the HUD + Higher Ed Engagement Network email list to receive regular briefings.
Brought to you by
Anchor Institutions Task Force (AITF)
Campus Compact
Coalition of Urban and Metropolitan Universities (CUMU)
