HARRISBURG – According to Sen. Pat Stefano (R-32) and Rep. Ryan Warner (R-52), the Pennsylvania Broadband Development Authority (PBDA) today awarded 40 laptops to Highlands Hospital-Penn Highlands Connellsville, Fayette 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.
“Expanded access to broadband technology is absolutely crucial as we work to revitalize and grow our rural communities here in Fayette County,” Warner said. “While we often focus our efforts on broadband infrastructure, it is also important to recognize not everyone has the equipment they need to access broadband services. I commend the leadership at Penn Highlands Connellsville for pursuing these laptops for the benefit of the people they serve.”
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)
Patti Hippler (Warner)