Get Access to Digital Resources
The Alliance for Digital Equity is partnering with 413Cares to ensure residents across western Massachusetts have the accessibility and skills to allow them to fully participate in the digital world. Connect with services below that can support with Internet Access, Digital Skills, and/or Free Devices.
Digital Navigation
Libraries
Older Adults
People with Disabilities
Digital Skills Trainings
Low-Cost Internet
Free Devices
Free Public Wi-Fi
Check Your Local Library
Many libraries offer digital resources, like devices, digital skills training, and more to all people in their respective communities.
Digital Skills Trainings Programs
There are several ways to boost your digital skills.
- Get support from a digital navigator
- Inquire with a local library or senior center
- Find a local organization that offers group classes or individual support
- Connect with an online resource
There are also national organizations that offer digital resources including digital skills training:
- Training is usually provided through online workshops on a range of basic to advanced topics.
- These may be useful for people who are comfortable using online platforms.
Seeking professional development for a career in IT?
Check out
Tech Foundry's 16-week IT Support Training Program.
Resources for Older Adults
Senior Centers, Councils on Aging, and other organizations offer a range of digital resources specifically designed for older adults to stay connected and engaged in the digital age,
Find a local program that can help older adults with basic computer skills, finding affordable internet, getting an appropriate device or learning to use a device.
Older adults can also
schedule an individual appointment with a Cyber Seniors Tech Mentor.
Resources for People with Disabilities
There are local organizations that offer digital skills trainings and other resources including assistive technology for people with disabilities. Connect with a program on our list.
Low-Cost Internet Plans
You can seek support from a Digital Navigator on low-cost internet plans that may serve you or find access to free hotspots. Learn more about local low-cost options from the Alliance for Digital Equity.
You can also find information about the internet service provider companies that offer low-cost internet plans that may serve some areas of Western MA.
Free/Low Cost Devices
In addition to devices you might be able to access from a digital navigator,
local library, or other community organization, there are a few organizations that provide free or low-cost devices.
Find Free Wi-Fi In Your Community
There are a variety of different spaces in communities that offer free Wi-Fi such as community centers, libraries, chain restaurants, malls, and more.
We will be putting together a list of some local sites in Western MA. Check back soon.
Are there important digital resources missing from this page? Contact Beyonca Twiggs.
Not finding what you're looking for? Search for other services
Search for other services
Connect with resources in these other common areas of need.
Food
Housing
Mental Health
Substance Use
Legal
Reentry
Digital
Mentoring
Alliance for Digital Equity
The Alliance for Digital Equity is an evolving Western Massachusetts based coalition of community-focused organizations working toward digital equity for all people. The goal of the Alliance is to get people the access they need—to the equipment, to the infrastructure, and to the knowledge and skills—and that will allow them to fully participate in the digital world. The Alliance works in collaboration with trusted community organizations and existing networks to help strengthen their digital equity efforts and to develop big picture solutions.
Digital equity is necessary for people to fully participate in modern society. It plays a vital role as part of overall personal and community equity because all major parts of life—including health, housing, food, education, employment, child care, banking, transportation, and civic engagement—have gone online.
Become a part of 413Cares.org
Be part of this initiative by listing and managing information about your programs and services. Your organization will join many community-based organizations that help people in our region connect to the services they need and may be searching for. It’s free and easy to do.
Convened by The Public Health
Institute of Western Massachusetts
Get the latest regional COVID-19 health and information.