Internet is now a Necessity

Access to the Internet is now a necessity to do everyday activities and is essential for education, employment, leisure, business, public services and healthcare. Today, 96% of U.S. adults say they use the internet. Over 90% of job postings require digital skills.

Education

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the National Education Association reported that one-quarter of US students lacked access to broadband internet. School-aged children in households below the federal poverty threshold are much less likely (53%) than those above (79%) to have access to both broadband and a computer.

  • "38% of Massachusetts children in under-resourced households lack full digital access" - National Education Association

  • "In Massachusetts, 24% of Native students and students of color do not have full access to broadband internet" - National Education Association

  • "In Massachusetts, 12% of teachers do not have access to broadband internet" - National Education Association

Employment

Healthcare