Pima County launches program to encourage digital literacy, inclusion [Video]

TUCSON, Ariz. (13 News) – A local program by the Pima County Office of Digital Inclusion aims to increase online literacy in disadvantaged communities.

According to the American Library Association, disadvantaged communities including people of color, low-income families and aging residents. They are more likely to have slow internet connections and lack basic digital skills.

The Digital Navigator Program seeks to bridge the digital divide by providing lessons to people like Rosa Martinez.

“I’ve never touched one computer,” Martinez said. “So, I’m very happy because it’s my first time I’m going to start learning the computer.”

Martinez is 60 years old and looks forward to being one of the first participants in the program.

Office of Digital Inclusion Director Michelle Simon said the program offers help to those who need it the most, especially since many things are done online nowadays.

“The individuals that we will be helping come from low-income households, they might be individuals who are aging or live in rural communities,” she said. …