THE #CovConnects Device Bank has received 200 ‘Get Boxes’ to help the council tackle digital exclusion and poverty in the city.
Technology charity Jangala and its partnership with Virgin Media O2 has donated the boxes which will be distributed to voluntary, community and social enterprise organisations across the city.
‘Get Boxes’ are deployable, free Internet connectivity devices which provide reliable and secure WiFi.
Virgin is providing a year of free O2 mobile data for the programme via the National Databank, set up with charity Good Things Foundation.
The devices are specifically going to areas in aim to support people living in temporary accommodation to tackle digital exclusion and improve online access for Coventry residents.
Collaborating with Valley House has helped people stay connected and benefit from services.
Caroline Pike, director of operations at Valley House, said: “Our service users have found the Get Boxes very beneficial – it has given them and their children access to a wider range of opportunities, such as education, employment and social activities.
“We have found the partnership very supportive and it has provided reliable, affordable, and accessible connectivity to our service users.”
Organisations can apply for the #CovConnects Device Bank on the council’s website now.
Richard Thanki, co-founder and managing director of Jangala, said: “Connectivity in today’s world is more than just access to the internet – it’s access to opportunities, information and community.
“By focusing our efforts on a variety of different settings – including homes, shared accommodations and social settings – we aim to ensure that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, can tap into the benefits of being connected.
“We are delighted to be working with the #CovConnects team at Coventry City Council as part of Jangala’s mission to connect 4million people to the internet globally by 2029.”
