Cox Communications Launches New “Tech Boost” Program with $40,000 in Grants to Area Non-Profits

New Opportunities of Greater Meriden is among the recipients in this inaugural year of the Tech Boost program. The $10,000 “boost” allowed them to purchase computers, peripheral equipment and software to utilize in their education and outreach programs. New Opportunities Inc. is a community action agency that serves Waterbury, Meriden, Torrington and 27 surrounding Connecticut towns by offering a variety of social service programs designed to eliminate poverty and assist people in need.

“When you consider the larger-than-life role organizations like New Opportunities for Greater Meriden play in the lives of Connecticut’s youth, it’s incredible how important it is to have them in our communities,” said Jay Allbaugh, senior vice president and region manager, Cox Communications. “We’re extremely proud to announce our Cox Tech Boosts, and excited to see how our community partners use these grants to grow their impact on the children and families in their reach.”

Recipients were recognized for their commitment to help reduce the “digital divide” for members of their community and provide educational opportunities beyond the classroom. The programs provided by organizations like the New Opportunities for Greater Meriden serve many children who live in communities and neighborhoods at or below the poverty line. They provide a safe place for students to explore and learn outside of the school environment to help close the digital divide that exists in accessing technology.

“The impact of technology access on the lives of Meriden’s youth and families is profound, and we are honored to receive a 2018 Tech Boost grant from Cox Communications,” said Dona Ditrio, NOGM director. “By injecting this capital into the acquisition of cutting-edge technology resources, we will be able to provide our families with new optimism for the future and the training they need to succeed in the classroom and the workforce.”

This is the first year for Cox Tech Boosts, and the program will continue, with Tech Boosts being provided on an annual basis. Organizations focused on providing “outside-the-classroom” learning opportunities for middle- or high-school students that would benefit from an influx of new technology can apply starting December 1 by visiting www.coxcharitiesne.org/techboosts. Technology needs can range from Chromebooks and printers to more advanced technology. Other organizations receiving a 2018 Tech Boosts grant from Cox include the Dr. Marin Luther King, Jr. Community Center in Newport, RI; Progreso Latino in Central Falls, RI; and the Lakewood Library – Madison Branch in Lakewood, Ohio. In addition to pledging to invest in new technology resources, these organizations are also strong supporters of the Connect2Compete program, a low-cost internet offering from Cox provided to families with students in grades K-12 who are enrolled in a nutritional assistance program, like SNAP, or who reside in public housing.

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About Cox Communications

Cox Communications is a broadband communications and entertainment company, providing advanced digital video, Internet, telephone and home security and automation services over its own nationwide IP network. The third-largest U.S. cable company, Cox serves approximately 6 million residences and businesses. Cox Business is a facilities-based provider of voice, video and data solutions for commercial customers, and Cox Media is a full-service provider of national and local cable spot and digital media advertising. Cox is known for its pioneering efforts in broadband, voice and commercial services, industry-leading customer care and its outstanding workplaces. For nine years, Cox has been recognized as the top operator for women by Women in Cable Telecommunications; Cox has ranked among DiversityInc's Top 50 Companies for Diversity 11 times. More information about Cox Communications, a wholly owned subsidiary of Cox Enterprises, is available at www.cox.com and www.coxmedia.com.