Findlay--Habitat for Humanity of Findlay/Hancock County, through its Financial Opportunity Center (FOC), is launching a new program that connects area residents with the technology and training necessary to function in today’s digital world.
“UNIFI provides a variety of customized services aimed at increasing digital connectivity and support to members of the community through more accessible, affordable, reliable, and adoptable technology,” explains Dustin Fuller, FOC manager. “We offer resources such as devices, data plans and training to individuals and families that are otherwise unable to benefit from online resources.”
UNIFI services include:
Lending Library - provides temporary access to devices (laptops, Chromebooks, tablets, hotspots) to assist individuals and families with employment applications/searches, continuing education, and financial literacy/skill building.
ACP Enrollment - assists individuals and families in applying for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) program that provides a monthly $30 subsidy for home internet and a one-time discount of up to $100 on a newly purchased laptop, desktop, computer, or tablet from participating providers.
Digital Literacy Training - free access to individualized coaching to accommodate every learner wanting to become more comfortable using computers, tablets, the internet, or Microsoft Office programs.
Recently UNIFI was successful in assisting ‘Mila,’ a second-year student at the local university when her personal laptop became damaged and no longer operational. Fixing her computer required money and time she could not spare. Mila contacted the FOC and was equipped with a laptop from the Lending Library, free of charge. She completed her course work for the semester and was able to have her own device repaired. When returning the borrowed laptop, Mila was grateful and told the digital navigator that without the Lending Library she would not have made it through the semester.
The new UNIFI program is a part of the FOC’s Online Resource Center (ORC) available at habitatfindlay.org/foc-resource-center. The ORC provides access to community resources, educational opportunities, financial literacy programs, financial products, and information on a variety of topics ranging from basic taxes to student loan repayment options. Other topics include online banking and additional digital literacy courses.
With the support of many partners including The Community Foundation, ADAMHS Board and General Motors, Habitat for Humanity Findlay/Hancock County launched the FOC in April 2021 to engage, educate and empower individuals and families to build a better financial future through self-sufficiency. Through one-on-one coaching, the FOC provides incremental levels of support and resources that help clients meet their goals toward career, savings and education. The FOC promotes peace of mind through hope and financial stability.
During 2022 the FOC served 96 clients, provided 450 hours of coaching, and achieved a 75 percent job placement rate. For more information on the FOC contact Dustin Fuller at 419-429-1400 x 4 or [email protected].
