Literacy Volunteers get grant to expand technology access

AUGUSTA — Literacy Volunteers of Kennebec has received a $50,000 grant from Central Maine Power to help support its Technology Access Program, which provides tutors and learners with tablets and internet connectivity.
Literacy Volunteers of Kennebec — formerly Literacy Volunteers of Greater Augusta and Literacy Volunteers Waterville area — will administer distribute the money to eight Literacy Volunteer affiliate programs across Maine to increase access to technology and develop skills in technology for those with limited literacy and those who are new Americans, in need of English language skills in addition to technology literacy.
The money will be used to provide technology equipment (tablets, iPads, laptops) and provide technology instruction to learners at no cost. Technology equipment may be provided as a loan, for on-site use, or granting to learners, as best determined by the Literacy Volunteer affiliate.
“We thank CMP for this forward-thinking action that will significantly help to reduce the inequalities of access to technology that many Mainers experience,” Literacy Volunteers officials said in a news release.