On Talk of the Bay this Tuesday, October 13, 2020, listeners will enjoy a beautiful story of powerful collaboration to meet a serious local challenge. 

With the rise of Covid-19, an existing problem has bloomed into a national crisis. Families with children who have been forced to learn remotely–often without adequate access to quality internet coverage–have been struggling to keep up, with many children falling critically behind. 

Two local organizations have deemed this reality unacceptable and are moving decisively to meet a dire need. Santa Cruz’s independent high-speed internet provider, Cruzio, along with Community Foundation Santa Cruz County have launched the bold initiative, Equal Access Santa Cruz, with a simple goal in mind:  Bridge the digital divide and bring true high-speed broadband to every family in the Santa Cruz community, regardless of income level. 

Joining host, Christine Barrington, to tell this extraordinary tale of local vision are: 

Margaret Dolgenos, Cruzio’s President and co-CEO

Susan True, CEO of Community Foundation Santa Cruz County

Dr. Faris Sabbah, Superintendent, Santa Cruz County Office of Education

And, Dr. Michelle Rodriguez, Superintendent of Pajaro Valley Unified School District

Join us and hear how these inspired and compassionate local leaders are coming together to build a more resilient and just Santa Cruz County. 

If you would like to be a part of this marvelous effort to support all families at this time of real hardship go to Equal Access Santa Cruz and donate. When there is so much news of ineffectual leadership during a time of real suffering, it is a gift to know that Santa Cruz County has leadership worthy of the name and worth our support.