Seahawks, Microsoft join initiative to support remote learning for students in Washington

The Seahawks, Microsoft and other organizations and agencies launched the Digital Equity Initiative on Wednesday, an effort to provide resources and close the digital divide as students take classes online.

The initiative is part of the All in Washington relief effort that aims to provide support to those affected by the coronavirus pandemic.

“The Digital Equity Initiative is helping to provide thousands of students in Washington with the support necessary to keep up with school while our state recovers from this pandemic. Every child deserves the opportunity to succeed, and the public, private, and nonprofit sectors have come together to make this possible,” Gov. Jay Inslee said.

According to the release, 22% of students in Washington lack adequate access to high-speed internet, and 15% lack the devices necessary to do classes remotely.

Many local organizations have already pledged support for the initiative.

Microsoft pledged $1.25 million to kickstart the fund, and Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos is matching individual donations up to $1 million.

Puget Sound Energy donated $200,000 to help purchase equipment and provide hardware support. The Seattle Seahawks Charitable Foundation contributed $120,000 to the initiative as well.

The Seahawks and Microsoft also offered to support tech needs at the Boys & Girls Club of King County by donating devices and internet hotspots.

“We are at our best when we come together to tackle fundamental challenges like this in our community. We encourage our fans, partners and everyone who calls this place home to join us in supporting the Digital Equity Initiative,” said Jeff Richards, Seahawks Vice President of Marketing and Community Engagement.

Cox Media Group