PRESS RELEASE
Media Contact: Yuri Gonzalez
Phone: (956) 310-2139
Email: yuri.gonzalez@pharr-tx.gov

City Launches Pharr Connect Digital Literacy Program with $3.2M Grant to Advance Digital Equity

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
TUESDAY, JANUARY 14, 2025

Pharr, Texas – The City of Pharr is excited to announce the launch of its Pharr Connect Digital Literacy Program, a transformative initiative funded by a $3.2 million grant from Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc. (MHM). 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.

Methodist Healthcare Ministries is investing over $21 million across South Texas to promote digital equity and 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, in a press release announcing the grant awards. “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,” he continued.

The funding provided to Pharr 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, 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.

The City of Pharr is excited to announce that 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. 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 4 to 7 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.

Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D., emphasized the program’s significance by stating, “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.” He further added, “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.”

The City of Pharr encourages residents to stay tuned for more updates on training schedules and how to participate in the upcoming programs.
For more information about the Pharr Connect Digital Literacy Program, please call (956) 402-2000.