Philly Connects

Digital connectivity is a social determinant of health, one that is missing for many vulnerable, majority Black populations throughout Philadelphia. If these individuals cannot connect to loved ones, schoolwork, job opportunities, and other digital activities, they are cut off from their support systems and critical activities of daily living.

The need for greater connectivity was present in the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic, and has been heightened in today's civic unrest. It is more important than ever before that Black families have the ability to connect with each other, including their parents and grandparents who they may not have seen for months due to isolation in nursing homes and healthcare sites. Digital connectivity is crucial to allow Black families to receive emotional support and make sure family members are safe. While the majority of our donations went to people of color before, we are now actively focusing on supporting Black, vulnerable populations in this time of pain. 

For the foreseeable future:

❤️ALL of our donations of smartphones, tablets, and some laptops will be going to predominantly Black nursing homes 

Nursing home administrators have already shared the importance of our donations with us, saying that "in the midst of this horrendous pandemic, and now civil unrest and protests, the support and donation of tech has helped to facilitate communication between our Residents and their loved ones. The look of joy on their faces, as they reconnect after having been apart for so long is priceless." 

❤️Newer laptops and the money that goes into purchasing them will go into homes to connect
(1) children in predominantly Black schools and
(2) low-income, underrepresented minority, 1st-generation college students to their studies, helping to bridge achievement gaps caused by economic disparities and the digital divide.

Systemic racism demands systemic change. As such, narrowing disparities in health and education has been, and will always be, one of our top priorities. 

WE NEED YOUR SUPPORT TO CONTINUE OUR WORK! 

Please DONATE money here. If you wish to donate an amount larger than $500, we have a 501(c)(3) for you & can let you choose the initiative.

ANY AMOUNT HELPS!

$2 will pay for PPE 2 PHL couriers to deliver devices across Philadelphia to healthcare sites and families. We've done this  40+ times already, connecting hundreds of vulnerable nursing home residents and patients.
$5 will pay for a charger that someone didn't donate with their device, so we can donate a complete package on their behalf
$43.19 will buy a new or refurbished tablet on amazon which will go to majority Black nursing homes and healthcare sites
>$200 will buy a new/refurbished laptop to donate to Black families and schoolchildren

To donate your device or accessories, click here 

Spread the word to family and friends! We are on FB , Instagram , and Twitter @philly_connects!

Visit www.POHPS.org/phillyconnects to see how we will always be committed to helping vulnerable populations across our city.