SDESJ is launching an innovative program targeting over 1,000 young people and their families in response to the digital divide amplified by COVID-19

• The 4C program aims to empower disadvantaged families by providing them with equipment, Internet access and support to counter the digital divide.

MONTREAL, April 21, 2020 /CNW Telbec/ - The black youth socio-economic development summit (SDESJ) announced the launch of Projet 4C: Communauté connectée pour contrer la COVID-19 (Project 4C: Connected community to curb COVID-19). This program seeks to address inequalities in accessing digital equipment and the Internet for more than 500 disadvantaged families.

This initiative will focus on four goals:

1. Provide a support service to help families develop the basic skills required to take advantage of the digital world and avoid the potential pitfalls of inappropriate use.
2. Provide each family with a quality computer or tablet.
3. Provide unlimited residential high-speed Internet access.
4. Provide technical support.

"Through this action, SDESJ wishes to provide a practical response to the challenges faced by some young people who are severely affected by the digital divide," said Edward Staco, President of SDESJ. "SDESJ counts on the support of the Lucie and André Chagnon Foundation and its members to implement this important initiative."

"As we all face uncertain times, the situation is sometimes even more difficult for young people who don't have access to digital equipment and the Internet," said Jean-Marc Chouinard, president of the Lucie and André Chagnon Foundation. "Closing the digital divide is one way to reduce social inequities. That's why we wanted to support the black youth socio-economic development summit's initiative."

"Confinés et Actifs" (Confined and Active): 
In addition, the summit will offer "Confiné et Actifs," digital educational programming aimed primarily at young people, available on digital platforms and community radio. Interactive activities will be presented three times per week. The programming available as of April 27 features five main components:

1. Story time
2. Arts, culture and history
3. Physical activity and healthy living
4. Science and technology
5. Games, quizzes and contests

The activities will highlight our heritage, while encouraging young people and their families to follow the instructions issued by public health authorities.

SDESJ thanks the partners who will help broaden the impact of these two important initiatives.

About SDESJ
Comprised of about 40 organizations, the black youth socio-economic development summit is an innovative network whose mission is to contribute to the economic and social development of Quebec and Canada by specifically focusing on the contribution of black youth.

http://sdesj.org/

SOURCE Sommet socioéconomique pour le développement des jeunes des communautés noires

Sandra Rabrun, Coordinator, SDESJ, 514 775-7477, [email protected]