Press Releases

Eighth Congressional District, Pennsylvania – Today, U.S. Representative Matt Cartwright (PA-08) announced $4,183,159.47 from the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) Emergency Connectivity Fund Program (ECF).

The schools and libraries in PA-08 that have received funding include:

“These funds are critical to ensuring that every child, regardless of their zip code or circumstances, has access to the internet and the tools they need to succeed in school and beyond,” said Rep. Cartwright. “During the COVID-19 pandemic and remote learning, we saw many schools and their students struggle with the lack of tech equipment and internet access. We are more dependent on the internet than ever, and no student deserves to be left behind because they can’t do their homework or connect to online resources. I am proud to have supported this program in Congress because an investment in our youngest citizens is an investment in our country’s future.”

The ECF, established one year ago by the American Rescue Plan (ARP), helps provide schools and libraries with the tools and equipment they need to ensure students can connect to the internet at home and take advantage of online learning and complete their homework to avoid the “homework gap.” Students who do not have access to the internet after school hours and at home often fall behind their classmates as educational resources and curriculums move online.

The ECF Program helps cover the cost of laptop computers and tablets, Wi-Fi hotspots, modems, routers and broadband connectivity purchases for off-campus use by students, school staff and library patrons. According to the FCC, Pennsylvania has received $77,120,411.14 in total funding to date.