Digital inequity is the disparity in access, knowledge, and ability to use digital tools and technology, particularly harming lower income individuals and minority communities. 

In Lake County more than 14% of households do not have home internet and 8% can't access the internet at all - not even from a mobile phone. Without internet access Lake County residents can't find employment, take advantage of telehealth, expand access educational resources, and bank, shop or stay connected with family and friends. At ConnectLakeCounty we believe access to the internet in a necessity and basic right.

We know that residents in low-income areas of Lake County lack sufficient devices at home because cost is a major barrier to ownership. Approximately 50% of low-income families lack sufficient devices at home to access distance learning (The Education Trust) and research shows that while 80% of white adults own a desktop or laptop, ownership drops to 69% of Black adults and 67% of Hispanic adults. 

Even for those with home internet and devices, the lack of adequate digital skill development shows up disproportionately in vulnerable communities. The lack of digital skills  then compounds existing challenges faced by residents.

With support from our trusted community partners, ConnectLakeCounty is doing what we can reduce digital inequity in Lake County's most vulnerable communities.