FRANKLIN COUNTY, MA (FRANKLIN COUNTY NOW) — Multiple Franklin County towns have been awarded digital equity funding through the Massachusetts Broadband Institute to help support internet access for all after the COVID-19 pandemic exposed the digital divide.

The towns receiving funds include Charlemont, Northfield, and Shutesbury. Charlemont recieved $46,828 and “will use funds to establish a digital technology training hub at the library; purchase devices for distribution to residents in need; and conduct outreach to residents about low-cost internet programs.”

Northfield $85,260 for “a regional application with five other towns to expand the Cyber Seniors program at Greenfield Community College, which provides digital literacy and technology assistance to older adults in Franklin County. Separately, a portion of the grant will help the Northfield Library offer tech help, digital literacy sessions and devices to patrons.” 

And Shutesbury was awarded $55,979 and a “portion of the funds to provide free long drops and one month of internet service to low-income residents not currently subscribed to the municipal network. The town will also upgrade public Wi-Fi and purchase additional devices for the library, pilot a tech support program and use remaining funds to cover a portion of the cost to upgrade routers for all ShutesburyNet subscribers.”