In an exciting partnership, my office, the Office of Community Engagement & Constituent Services (CECS), teamed up with the Anne Arundel County Public Library (AACPL) to host Chromebook distribution events as part of Maryland’s Connected Devices Program. This initiative, funded by a grant awarded to Anne Arundel County under the State Department of Housing and Community Development, was designed to connect under-resourced households with a free device, supporting the state’s
digital equity and inclusion efforts.
digital equity and inclusion efforts.
Recognizing that AACPL had already hosted or planned to host several distribution events at their locations, CECS aimed to reach families who may struggle with transportation to a library branch. To achieve this, we carefully selected four locations across the county in neighborhoods with a high concentration of eligible households not within walking distance of a library. We focused on ensuring that those who needed these devices the most could receive them, understanding that access to technology is crucial for education, employment, and staying connected.
We launched a user-friendly webpage that clearly explained the program’s mission and eligibility criteria and provided a simple scheduling system for appointments to pick up a Chromebook. However, knowing that many in our target audience might not have reliable internet access, we took extra steps to ensure the message reached them. We partnered with local community-based organizations that already work closely with families, providing them with printed flyers in both English and Spanish to distribute. This grassroots approach was key to ensuring our efforts were inclusive and accessible.
The results were incredible. We distributed over 300 Chromebooks to some of the county’s most vulnerable residents, giving them access to technology that would otherwise be out of reach. This initiative has made a real difference in helping to bridge the digital divide in our community.
However, we didn’t stop there. With Chromebooks still available after the initial events, we worked closely with organizations like the United Black Clergy, My Sistah’s Keeper, My Brotha’s Keeper, and M.E.G.A. to ensure more residents could benefit. We provided Chromebooks to qualified participants of their programs, further extending our reach.
Leading this effort has been one of my proudest moments as Director of CECS. Seeing the direct impact on individuals and families and knowing we played a role in helping them access critical resources has been truly rewarding. Our work here is not just about technology—it’s about creating opportunity, inclusion, and connection for all residents of Anne Arundel County.
Chromebook Giveaway Flyer
Chromebook Giveaway Flyer (Spanish)
Chromebook Giveaway Website
Distribution Event (South County)
Program Partnership
