S:US Residents Get Improved Access to Technology & Increase Wellness
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We are grateful to The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation for awarding S:US a generous grant in support of our Stay Safe, Stay Connected initiative, which provides Wi-Fi access in our supportive housing locations. Funding from the Weinberg Foundation will enable us to expand the program to five additional residential sites.
Due to a lack of access to Wi-Fi and little or no understanding of how to use technology to meet their needs, many individuals living in our supportive housing and shelters have had challenges accessing virtual support services. This was especially problematic during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic when many services were only available online.
Through our Stay Safe, Stay Connected initiative, S:US has been connecting members of the vulnerable communities we serve to Wi-Fi and assisting them as they learn to access virtual services. Through videoconferencing technology, individuals served are able to access telehealth services and virtual counseling, and attend support groups with their peers. They also are better able to keep in touch with friends and family. By connecting with others and accessing essential support services, the people served through this program are able to improve their long-term health and wellbeing.
Like all of S:US’ programs, Stay Safe, Stay Connected serves individuals and families from New York’s most underserved communities. Over 90% of the people we serve are considered very low-income, and many have experienced homelessness, live with mental health and substance use challenges, and/or have dealt with trauma.
Thanks to The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation, S:US now will be able to bridge the digital divide for hundreds of New Yorkers in need. We are immensely grateful for this generous support.