Welcome to the Digital Access Program by the Child Neurology Foundation! Our aim is to provide assistance to individuals and families affected by neurologic conditions by enabling their access to the necessary resources and support.

In today’s world, technology plays a significant role in almost every aspect of our lives, be it education, work, healthcare, or entertainment. Having reliable internet access can lead to greater opportunities, reduced isolation, and overall success.

For families and children living with neurologic conditions, access to digital resources is crucial. It provides them with the necessary tools for telehealth and education, serving as a lifeline.

To aid these families, the Child Neurology Foundation is relaunching a program to offer at least 50 refurbished Chromebooks to families with one or more children living with neurologic conditions. Additionally, if needed, a hotspot with 23GB of data per month will also be provided for one year from acceptance.

We’re here to help. If you, or someone you know, can benefit from our Digital Access Program, please contact our programs team at [email protected] to learn more about how we can help.

Learn more about eligibility to participate in the program here.

*Open to US residents only

Applications open April 21st, 2023. 

Welcome to the Child Neurology Foundation’s Digital Access Program! We’re here to help families and individuals affected by neurologic conditions access the resources and support they need. Here’s everything you need to know about the Digital Access Program: 

What Is The Digital Access Program?

The Digital Access Program is a Child Neurology Foundation initiative that aims to bridge the digital divide for families from historically disadvantaged populations in the child neurology community. Many families face barriers to accessing digital resources, such as a lack of affordable internet, limited access to computers, or living in rural areas with limited connectivity. The program provides Chromebook computers and hotspots with up to one year’s worth of data, giving families access to telehealth, online resources, and a sense of community. 

Our identified partners are PCs for People and providers treating children with neurologic conditions.  

The program will begin at the end of April 2023. (Equipment acquired by the program will be given to the family to keep, data for hotspot will be maintained for one year). 

How it works

The Digital Access Program works by providing Chromebook computers and hotspots with up to one year’s worth of data to families from historically disadvantaged populations in the child neurology community. Families can apply for the program online, and if they meet the eligibility criteria, they will receive a Chromebook and hotspot in the mail. The program also provides technical support and training to ensure that families are able to effectively use the resources provided 

Digital Access Means:

Why now?

For children living with neurologic conditions and their families, the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for equitable access to digital resources, as technology is needed to access online healthcare and schooling.

In late 2020, Pew Research Center estimated that 59% of American families faced “digital obstacles” in accessing schoolwork and one would expect these families to also face barriers in accessing telehealth. In addition, the isolation caused by the pandemic increases the need for digital resources to stay connected with a community. Studies have demonstrated that children’s mental health is worse in times of isolation but can be alleviated with tools to keep children connected.

This need is felt even more when one is a member of a vulnerable community like those with disabilities. A recent article indicated that technology access issues are more concentrated in historically underserved populations, exactly the population that would benefit most from improved access to care via telehealth.

Moreover, expert interviews have indicated that many children use their school-provided technology to access telehealth, leaving their families without access during the summer holidays.

Areas Of Need

Increase income

Build community

Telehealth access

Improve quality of life

Who is eligible?

The program is for low-income and middle-income families of children living with a neurologic condition.

Low income allows for 200% of the federal poverty guideline: 

Middle income: The Census Bureau definition the median income for average American in 2020 was $68,400. Families making this amount will also be eligible for the CNF digital resources assistance program. 

Thank you to our 2023 Digital Access partners!