Telecommunications and broadband provider, Fibrus has announced a £55,000 fund to address digital poverty in rural Northern Ireland in partnership with the Community Foundation.
The ‘Fibrus Community Fund’ will award grants of £1,000 to groups and organisations in rural locations over the next year, helping them to access digital technology and purchase equipment.
Fibrus Networks Ltd will make awards through the Community Foundation in tandem with the full fibre broadband rollout.
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Marcus Cooper, Fund Development Manager at the Community Foundation commented on the importance and value of this corporate social responsibility partnership for our communities stating: “Coronavirus has further highlighted the need for communities to remain connected and many groups and charities working with those most vulnerable in our communities are telling us that a strong and sustainable broadband connection in rural communities is vitally important. The pandemic has massively increased our use of technology and it now plays a vital role in our daily lives. Our learnings from Covid highlight digital poverty as a major concern in rural areas, negatively impacting isolation and loneliness, especially among young people and older people.”
Fibrus Managing Director, David Armstrong also spoke about the fund stating: “We’re looking for projects specifically aimed at young people who need greater access to technology or connectivity, as well as initiatives that combat digital exclusion amongst the elderly or those more vulnerable in our society. We hope as many local groups and community organisations get involved and we look forward to hearing more about your good work”
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For information on the Community Foundation’s corporate responsibility fund management go to communityfoundationni.org
Source: Written from press release.
