Council News Release

COUNCIL BOOSTS TECHNOLOGY ACCESS WITH MATCHING GRANT
Underserved communities to benefit from $104,000 grant for digital equity

SEATTLE - Today, the Seattle City Council appropriated $104,000 for the Technology Matching Fund Program supporting 13 programs bringing digital equity to underrepresented communities across the city. These programs will increase technology literacy, open access to electronic information and promote the use of technology for civic engagement.

"We must continue to expand access to technology in the communities that need it most," said Councilmember Jean Godden, Chair of the Council's Committee on Energy and Technology. "These programs demonstrate an exceptional commitment to leveling the technology playing field for everyone."

Following in the footsteps of the successful Neighborhood Matching Funds program, the City's contribution will be matched by community grants and are expected to top $300,000 in resources.

"By funding projects at the community level we're bridging the digital divide and strengthening bonds within communities," said Councilmember David Della, Vice-chair of the Energy and Technology Committee.

With these community grants, organizations across Seattle will deliver a wide variety of resources to technologically-underserved residents including:

• ArtWorks Computer Learning Center, $8,560;
• Delridge Neighborhood Development Association: Youngstown Cultural Arts Center, $6,000;
• Hilltop House: Enhanced technology access and training for Seniors, $6,500;
• Municipal League Foundation: Seattle Civic Engagement Project, $6,990;
• Phinney Neighborhood Association: Greenwood Senior Center Digital Literacy Program, $8,500;
• Provail: Computer Camp for Children with Disabilities, $9,500;
• Reel Grrls: Media That Matters Summer Program, $9,500;
• Seattle MESA (Mathematics, Engineering, Science, Achievement): Robotics Academy, $9,500;
• Sustainable Seattle: Sustainable Urban Neighborhoods Initiative, $9,500;
• Technology Access Foundation (TAF): TechStart Expansion Project, $5,000;
• Tigrean Community Association: Integrating Technology into Daily Life, $6,500;
• Washington Asian Pacific Islander Families Against Substance Abuse: API Youth Voices, $9,500; and
• Washington Community Alliance for Self-Help: Computer Resource Center Usage Expansion, $8,450.

More information may be obtained at http://www.seattle.gov/tech/tmf/

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City Council