Digital Equity: Improving Access and Education to Broadband Resources

Methodist Healthcare Ministries seeks to improve Digital Equity by identifying, investing in, and supporting broadband and telehealth approaches that help close the digital divide. The three legs of the stool of digital equity include: Infrastructure, Affordability/Tools, and Digital Skills Training.

MHM’s Commitment to Digital Equity

MHM is working to foster digital inclusion and build a robust digital ecosystem through grantmaking, capacity building, strategic partnerships, and advocacy. MHM has invested over $35 million in digital equity initiatives across South Texas. This includes supporting a cohort of grantees focused on broadband access, digital opportunity, and infrastructure development—all intending to ensure communities, especially in rural and underserved areas, have the tools and access they need to thrive in today’s digital world. 

This funding will enhance the capacity of community-based organizations and community anchor institutions throughout the region to provide critical digital resources. MHM is committed to ensuring that all people in its 74-county service region have access to reliable, affordable broadband services and the skills and opportunities to use this technology safely and effectively to support their economic, health, and social needs.

Strategic Alignment & Desired Outcomes:

Key Stats:

According to the Texas Broadband Development Office’s Texas Broadband Plan:

• 2.8 million Texas households do not have access to high-speed broadband.
• 5.6 million households do not have quality internet.
• 3.8 million Texas residents face digital literacy challenges.
• Many households pay over $100/month for high-speed internet service, a price may be out of reach for households without home internet. 

Public health experts have called the impact of broadband internet access on the country’s health a “super-determinant of health” because without it, people cannot access essential resources that impact health and well-being.

Program Highlights:

Rio Grande Valley Digital Equity Cohort

Ecosystem Development

Over the past two years, we’ve strengthened digital equity in South Texas by bringing together grantees, advocates, and community leaders to drive meaningful change. Through 6 cohort convenings, we’ve fostered collaboration and shared solutions for expanding digital inclusion. Our Digital Equity Speaker Webinar Series has brought expert voices to the forefront, engaging the community on key challenges and opportunities in the digital world. We’ve also submitted 5 public comments to advocate for policies that support digital opportunity policy, ensuring that community needs are heard. Plus, we created a SharePoint site to help our partners connect, share resources, and collaborate more easily.