According to a press release from the Dubuque Area Chamber two local nonprofits are collectively receiving $529,220 worth of wireless hotspots from UScellular to ensure local kids have internet access.

Credit: Google Maps / YMCA/YWCA / Boys & Girls Club of Greater Dubuque
Credit: Google Maps / YMCA/YWCA / Boys & Girls Club of Greater Dubuque
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Dubuque Community YMCA/YWCA is receiving 400 wireless hotspots, valued at $450,400, while Boys & Girls Club of Greater Dubuque is receiving 70 hotspots, valued at $78,820. The donations include two years of UScellular service as part of the company’s After School Access Project.

“The success of students in the communities we serve is very important to us at UScellular. Connecting people and communities is our mission, and the After School Access Project is just one way that we’re helping ensure students have the reliable access they need to grow and pursue their dreams.”

-Josh Olbricht, UScellular Director of Sales and Operations, Eastern Iowa

According to the release there are currently, more than 40 million people in the United States that lack reliable access to high-speed internet. This leads to an issue referred to as the “homework gap” which affects youth who lack proper internet access. UScellular’s After School Access Project provides free mobile hotspots and service to nonprofits that support youth after the school day has ended and provides safe internet access for homework and education.

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Through the After School Access Project, UScellular has pledged to donate up to $13 million in hotspots and service to help up to 50,000 youths connect to reliable internet. So far, the company has donated more than 9,300 hotspots, at a value of $10.5 million to communities through the initiative. As always, any eligible not for profit organizations can apply at www.AfterSchoolAccessProject.com.

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