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         We’re excited to announce a new chapter at Brazoria County Dream Center! In partnership with Comcast and Aspen Utilities, we’ve created a space for community members to access vital internet services on desktop platforms that they otherwise would not be able to. This represents a big step in bridging the digital divide in Brazoria County.

 

          Comcast and Aspen Utilities provided Brazoria County Dream Center with a $20,000 donation to create a computer lab for clients and the public to use. The lab will be powered by Comcast’s leading internet infrastructure under its branded “Lift Zone” initiative — which aims to ensure everyone has access to internet services in our modern digital-first environment. It is located within the Dream Center facility and will feature 6-8 Chromebooks and a printer. Local artist Karyn Jewell partnered with the Dream Center to create artwork on canvases that are hung around the computer lab. Her creative designs bring fun and inspire creativity and learning in the relatively small space. 

 

          As the first Lift Zone in Brazoria County, we’re honored to bring this space to our community. It ties in well with the operations of our organization and the “wrap-around services” we have in our facility. The Dream Center offers a client-choice food pantry, resource assistance program, school supplemental food program (KidFuel), senior food delivery, Back 2 School Bash, and Dream Gifts toy drive and distribution. Within our facility, MyCHN Clute (formerly Community Health Network) provides a variety of healthcare services (including a pharmacy) to patients who may otherwise face financial challenges accessing medical care. Also, River of Hope is located within the facility and helps individuals with rent and utility assistance. These different organizations partner with the Dream Center and are located near each other to help create a “hub” of resources for local residents facing challenges. The new Lift Zone furthers that goal and helps complete the circle of resources provided here. 

 

          The Technology Resource Center will be open to the public, and the larger screens will help individuals more efficiently work on various tasks from filling out job applications or other online forms to students using it for homework. Since so much of society depends on internet access to function, those without reliable access to it are disadvantaged. This new Lift Zone will directly bridge that gap for people who feel left behind economically, so they can have a level playing field and work to improve their lives with dignity, respect, and a little inspiration. This facility is a natural extension of what we do, and we’re honored to bring it to our community and continue uplifting lives right here in Brazoria County.