Code Tenderloin Launches Free Computer Literacy Course through Partnership with Crown Castle
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Tuesday, October 5, 2021
Contact: Maria Judice, Code Tenderloin
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Code Tenderloin Launches Free Computer Literacy Course through Partnership with Crown Castle
Course Gives Residents Access to Job Applications, Telehealth, and Vital Government Services
San Francisco, CA –Today, Code Tenderloin launched a free computer literacy course with the support of Crown Castle, the nation’s largest provider of shared communications infrastructure. The course is aimed at teaching Tenderloin residents how to apply for jobs online, get access to telehealth services, and enroll in government programs that benefit low-income residents. As the Tenderloin neighborhood seeks to rebound and recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, the program will play a critical role in enhancing economic opportunities for one of San Francisco’s most underserved neighborhoods.
This multi-session course is designed to teach general and beginning skills for new computer, mobile, and technology users. To accommodate the urgent needs of the community, Code Tenderloin holds daily workshops with hands-on computer training. The training workshop focuses on those challenged with meeting the demands of our technological workforce.
One in seven San Francisco residents lack basic digital literacy such as the ability to send email or use a search engine, according to a report released by the San Francisco Mayor’s Office of Housing and Community Development. In particular, many San Franciscans who are low-income, limited English proficient, senior, and/or have a disability struggle to have reliable high-quality internet service and to learn the skills to reap its full benefits.
The COVID-19 pandemic had a severe impact on the Tenderloin neighborhood. Many food banks, shelters, and clinics across San Francisco shut down, and the homeless population of the Tenderloin increased by the thousands since the neighborhood was home to a few remaining organizations were still providing services. Now, as the City continues to recover from the pandemic, Code Tenderloin is working to help residents apply for jobs and enter the workforce.
“San Francisco is the technology capital of the world, yet many of our residents still lack access to basic technology,” said Code Tenderloin Founder Del Seymour. “Code Tenderloin’s digital literacy program is aimed at reducing these barriers and opening the door to economic opportunity for all of our residents.”
“Connectivity is a necessity in today’s world, and Crown Castle is committed to finding innovative solutions that address the digital divide,” said Mark Guillen of Crown Castle. “Crown Castle is proud to partner with Code Tenderloin on this important initiative that will empower local residents to compete in the 21st global economy.”
The program was made possible by a contribution through Connected by Good, Crown Castle’s initiative to work with community partners to improve spaces where people connect, promote public safety, and advance access to education and technology.
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