To succeed in school, students need basic tools like internet access and connected devices to fully participate in the online world. For younger students, access to digital tools and connectivity expands learning and opens a world of possibilities. For older students, online research, classes, and virtual study resources are essential for success.
However, far too many Californians still lack access to critical high-speed internet and digital devices.
According to the Public Policy Institute of California, 41% of low-income households still do not have full digital access to both the internet and a device for educational purposes, nor do 37% of Latino households or 29% of Black households.
Through our AT&T Connected Learning initiative, AT&T has committed $5 billion by 2030 to narrow the digital divide and help 25 million people get and stay connected to affordable, high-speed internet access and digital resources. As part of this commitment, we’ve partnered with local organizations like the Brotherhood Crusade, YMCA of Greater Whittier, and the Coalition for Responsible Community Development (CRCD) to provide internet, laptops, and digital literacy resources to those who need them most.
Real Impact: Student Success Stories
For 13-year-old Noemi, receiving a laptop through our partnership with the YMCA of Greater Whittier opened up new learning possibilities:
I am very thankful for the laptop because I was able to learn how to operate a computer. My school gave me a tablet for the year, so this was a new thing for me since I hadn’t had a computer before. I can type faster and complete homework much faster than on the tablet. My favorite thing about the laptop is it made it so much easier to write out sheet music for my piano class.
Noemi’s experience is just one example of how technology can empower students to reach their full potential. YMCA staff have seen first-hand how these resources make a difference:
Noemi really enjoys her laptop. I’ve seen her bring it into the building and work on her homework on days where there is no school in session. Her family greatly appreciated it, as they couldn’t afford one. She had been asking for one, and her mom was so thankful when we said we wanted to make sure they got it.
For Natalia, an 8th-grade student, having access to a laptop meant more than just convenience—it transformed how she engaged with her education:
The laptop from the YMCA of Greater Whittier helped me research for school projects. We have a district-issued tablet, but nothing compares to having a regular-size screen to search for information and images for school projects. We are very grateful for the support and donation.
Investing in Connectivity Across Los Angeles
In Los Angeles and across California, we’re supporting communities by empowering them with digital tools and bridging the digital divide.
- Getting Connected
- AT&T is the nation’s largest fiber internet provider1. With Fiber and 5G, we’ve aggressively expanded our coverage, increased capacity and strengthened network resiliency.
- Access from AT&TSM provides qualifying households with affordable, high-speed internet for $30 per month, including Wi-Fi at no additional charge and with no deposit fees.
- AT&T Connected Learning CentersSM (CLCs) are located in nonprofit organizations across the country and provide free resources such as high-speed internet, computers, training and mentoring. We plan to open at least 100 CLCs nationwide by 2027, including 10 that have already opened in California, with 8 more to open this year.
- AT&T advocates for public policies that ensure that we can connect more people to more opportunities. For areas hardest to reach with connectivity, public-private partnerships remain key to closing gaps that still exist around the country.
- Staying Connected
- We work with nonprofits, including Human-I-T, to provide those in need free, refurbished computers and digital resources. Since 2021, we’ve distributed more than 26,000 free refurbished computers and Wi-Fi hotspots in California, with plans to surpass 30,000 in 2025.
- Through collaborations with the Public Library Association and the National PTA, we offer digital literacy courses and workshops in public libraries and community settings to help individuals learn the basics and build confidence in using technology.
- The AchieverySM, AT&T’s innovative and free educational online platform offers a standards-aligned curriculum and entertaining videos for K-12 students everywhere they learn – at home, in the community or in their classrooms. Over 740,000 students have used The Achievery. In California, we collaborate with Think Together and City Year to bring The Achievery to systemically underserved schools and after-school programs.
One of our first Connected Learning Centers in California opened in December 2021 at the Coalition for Responsible Community Development’s (CRCD) Youth Resource Center in Los Angeles.
Before joining CRCD, Ny’jay Poston faced personal and financial struggles that led her to drop out of college and feel isolated. CRCD helped Ny’jay overcome challenges in every aspect of her life – financial, emotional and mental. She learned the importance of balance and gained a new perspective.
Ny’jay enrolled in CRCD’s Summer Youth Employment Program, gaining valuable work experience at USC, and later joined the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) program. Through WIOA, she is pursuing her Clinical Medical Assistance Certification at Loyola Marymount University Extension while working at the American Red Cross through the Angeleno Corps program. Ny’jay comes into the CRCD CLC regularly to complete her homework as she does not have internet access at home.
We’re excited to continue our efforts in California this year with initiatives aimed at bridging the digital divide and enhancing connectivity, especially in communities that need it most.
Our purpose for 2025 is clear: expand connectivity, enhance digital literacy and ensure every Californian has the tools and resources they need to thrive in our digital world. Together, we can create a more connected Los Angeles and California.
1 Based on publicly available data of the number of fiber-to-the-home households.
