HARRISBURG – According to Sen. Pat Stefano (R-32) and Rep. Jesse Topper (R-78), the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority (PBDA) today awarded 120 laptops to the Everett Free Library in Bedford County as part of a competitively awarded grant process established by the U.S. Department of Treasury.
“Access to reliable technology is not a luxury, but a necessity, especially in our rural communities,” Stefano said. “I’m grateful PBDA has chosen to grant these devices to public libraries and health care facilities, where they will provide critical access to digital resources for education, employment opportunities and other essential services. Connectivity is vital and this effort is a great step in strengthening the infrastructure our rural communities need to thrive.”
The grant funding comes from the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Capital Projects Fund, which provided Pennsylvania $279 million for critical capital projects, including $20 million for non-profits, community anchor institutions, and municipal governments to purchase laptops for local citizens to utilize.
“Providing our community with the appropriate tools to connect people to the opportunities of tomorrow is a game changer for the future of our region,” Topper said. “I appreciate the work of the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority in understanding the unique connectivity needs of rural Pennsylvania while also recognizing the life-changing impact of getting the right technology in the hands of those who need it most.”
These laptops will allow users to connect to high-speed internet for essential services, including work and education, as well as be used to promote improving digital literacy. There is no cost for using the laptop.
This investment is a key part of the commonwealth’s broader mission to strengthen community infrastructure and create accessible public spaces that serve as lifelines for work, education, and health. By improving access to high-speed internet through laptops, Pennsylvania is ensuring its communities are well-equipped to meet current and future needs.
CONTACT: Amanda Cuteri (Stefano)
Jason Gottesman (Topper)