SALINAS VALLEY — Loaves, Fishes & Computers (LFC) received a $20,000 Spectrum Digital Education Grant during an Internet Awareness Day event held May 8 at the King City Recreation Center.
The event brought together community leaders and local officials to recognize ongoing efforts to bridge the digital divide in South Monterey County.
The grant, presented by Spectrum as part of its 2024 Spectrum Digital Education program, will support LFC’s digital literacy and computer refurbishment initiatives in underserved and economically challenged communities. The funding marks the sixth grant awarded to LFC through the program, bringing Spectrum’s total support for the organization to $143,000 since 2017.
“I am deeply grateful to Loaves, Fishes & Computers and Spectrum for their ongoing commitment to our community,” said Monterey County Supervisor Chris Lopez. “The $20,000 Spectrum Digital Education Grant exemplifies the impact of partnerships, delivering vital digital literacy training and resources to southern Monterey County residents.”
Local leaders in attendance included King City Mayor Mike LeBarre, Soledad Mayor Anna Velasquez, Monterey County Deputy Superintendent Ralph Porras, Soledad Councilmember Fernando Cabrera and Greenfield Councilmember Marcy Jones.
“Access to technology is essential for education, employment and staying connected in today’s world,” LeBarre said. “Spectrum’s generous donation to Loaves, Fishes & Computers will make a meaningful impact for families in rural Monterey County, helping to bridge the digital divide. We appreciate their commitment to our communities.”
LFC, a Salinas-based nonprofit, provides digital skills training and low-cost refurbished computers to low-income residents. With this new funding, the organization will expand its digital fluency programs across South Monterey County.
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to Spectrum for their generous grant and continued partnership,” said Delia Leal, director of operations for Loaves, Fishes & Computers. “This vital support allows us to grow our Digital Inclusion programs, which have served nearly 6,000 adults and children since 2009 — including over 1,400 seniors since 2021.”
Keri Askew Bailey, group vice president of government affairs at Spectrum, emphasized the company’s broader commitment to digital equity: “Connectivity is the foundation for meaningful learning, professional growth and human connection, and helps to build strong, thriving communities.”
LFC is one of 66 nonprofits across the country selected to receive a 2024 Spectrum Digital Education grant. Since its launch in 2017, the program has contributed more than $10 million to digital inclusion efforts and supported over 163,000 community members through device distribution and digital training programs.
