Methodist Healthcare Ministries invests in the City of Pharr

SAN ANTONIO, Texas – Methodist Healthcare Ministries is investing over $21 million across South Texas to promote digital equity.

The group wants to ensure that communities have access to broadband, devices, and the skills to use technology effectively.

“At Methodist Healthcare Ministries, we believe that by investing in advancing digital equity, we are not just helping communities to bridge the digital divide, but are also empowering them to access opportunities, connect with vital resources, and take charge of their well-being,” said Jaime Wesolowski, president & CEO of Methodist Healthcare Ministries.

“Our commitment to funding digital equity, evidenced by this investment across Texas, is a testament to our belief that everyone deserves the tools and skills to thrive in the digital age.”

Of that $21 million, $3.2 million is going to the City of Pharr to help launch the Pharr Connect Digital Literacy Program.

The three-year program, running from 2024 to 2026, aims to bridge the digital divide and promote health equity by enhancing digital literacy, expanding access to technology, and providing valuable resources to Pharr residents.

TeamPharr.Net staff members. (Photo courtesy: City of Pharr)

Pharr Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez said MHM’s funding will enhance the City’s ability to connect residents with essential digital resources, promote public benefit adoption, and strengthen its community spaces.

“The Pharr Connect Digital Literacy Program is a transformative initiative for Pharr. By equipping our residents with access to technology and essential digital skills, we are empowering them to connect with vital services, enhance their well-being, and unlock new educational and professional opportunities,” Hernandez said.

“We are grateful to Methodist Healthcare Ministries for this incredible investment in our community’s future, and we are excited to see the positive and transformative impact this program will have over the next three years.”

Hernandez said the Pharr Connect Digital Literacy Program, part of the broader Pharr Connect initiative, will fund critical programs and resources, including:

• Digital Literacy Training Program: Designed to build residents’ digital skills and provide access to essential resources like telehealth and public services.

• Laptop Distribution: The program will distribute 600 laptops in 2024, 1,000 laptops in 2025, and 1,000 laptops in 2026 to participants who complete the digital literacy training.

• Student Internships & Staff Expansion: The grant will fund new positions and internships to ensure the success and sustainability of the program.

• Cyberbullying Prevention and Mental Health Support: Through a partnership with Calix, the program will provide up to 1,000 subscriptions to Bark, a cyberbullying and mental health software designed to protect minors.

TeamPharr.Net staff members. (Photo courtesy: City of Pharr)

Registration for digital literacy training is now open to Pharr residents. 

“Those who complete the training will not only gain essential skills but will also receive a new laptop upon graduation,” a City of Pharr press release states.

“Classes will be offered in beginner and intermediate levels in both English and Spanish. Each class is expected to accommodate about 20 students at a time.” 

The courses are expected to last four to seven weeks depending on skill level. 

“In addition to digital literacy, the city plans to collaborate with external partners to offer training in areas like public health, financial literacy, higher education opportunities, and workforce development,” the press release states.

The post Methodist Healthcare Ministries invests in the City of Pharr appeared first on Rio Grande Guardian.