HARRISBURG – Sen. Judy Ward (R-30) and Rep. Kerry Benninghoff (R-171) today announced the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority (PBDA) has awarded 25 laptops to the Tuscarora Intermediate Unit through the Digital Connectivity Technology Program (DCTP). This initiative is designed to provide technology devices to communities where affordability has been a barrier to broadband adoption and use.
“Access to a computer and up-to-date technology is critical in today’s digital age,” Ward said. “By providing the Tuscarora intermediate Unit with these laptops through this award, they will be better able to give their students the tools they need to connect, succeed, and pursue their best future.”
“Access to the internet is a key to unlocking potential and expanding knowledge and opportunities,” Benninghoff said. “Congratulations to the students who will have the opportunity to use these laptops and the school’s administrators for taking the initiative to apply for this competitive grant.”
The DCTP program, backed by $20 million in federal funding, supports public-facing community anchor institutions, including libraries, schools, municipalities, workforce training organizations, and other non-profits. Eligible projects focus on providing devices that facilitate broadband internet access while advancing digital literacy and skills training.
To maintain transparency and ensure measurable progress, the PBDA requires grantees to submit quarterly and annual progress reports which will outline project successes and accomplishments, including the impact that access to technology has made in the community.
This latest round of awards is part of Pennsylvania’s broader effort to ensure greater digital access across the Commonwealth, reinforcing the commitment to closing the digital divide and building stronger, connected communities for Pennsylvania citizens.
Residents can follow Ward on Facebook at Facebook.com/SenJudyWard and X (Twitter) @SenatorJWard for news about legislation and the 30th Senate District. Contact information for her district offices and other information can be found on her website at SenatorJudyWard.com, and constituents also can sign up for her e-newsletter at SenatorJudyWard.com/enewsletters.
Ward contact: Nathan Akers
717-787-2421
Benninghoff contact: Scott Little
717-260-6137