In an effort to bridge the digital divide and ensure equal access to technology, Garrett County Government has partnered with the Ruth Enlow Libraries of Garrett County to offer a free Chromebook to each income-qualifying Garrett County household. This program aims to empower families by providing them with the tools they need for educational and professional success.
To date, the Garrett County Government Broadband team has distributed nearly 100 of the over 2,000 available Chromebooks to eligible families. The Chromebooks are available while supplies last. Limit one Chromebook per household.
To be eligible for a free Chromebook, households must have at least one full-time resident whose income falls within the income guidelines of 200% of the Federal Poverty Level. The income qualification levels are based on household size, ranging from $27,180 for a single-person household up to $83,820 for a seven-person household. Documentation such as government-issued identification, proof of residence, and income verification is required at the distribution events. Income can be verified by participation in various federal programs, such as Medicaid, SNAP, WIC, etc.
A simple application form is also required. Paper copies are available at each event or a form is available for download and print here: https://bit.ly/46DjMrM
The distribution events will be held at various branches of the Ruth Enlow Libraries in Garrett County and Senior Center Nutrition Sites. Additional dates are being scheduled around the county and will be posted at the website here: https://www.garrettcounty.org/broadband/devices.
Residents can mark their calendars for the following upcoming dates:
@ Ruth Enlow Library of Garrett County:
• Oakland:
Thursday, July 13, 5:30pm to 7:30pm
6 North Second Street, Oakland, MD 21550
• Accident:
Thursday, July 20, 9:00am to 11:00am
106 S North Street, Accident, MD 21520
• Kitzmiller:
Thursday, July 20, 4:00pm to 6:00pm
288 W Main St, Kitzmiller, MD 21538
• Friendsville:
Thursday, July 27, 5:30pm to 7:30pm
315 Chestnut Street, Friendsville, MD 21531
• Grantsville:
Friday, July 28, 9:00am to 11:00am
102 Parkview Dr, Grantsville, MD 21536
Upcoming 2023 events to be held at various Senior Center Nutrition Sites:
• Grantsville:
Thursday, July 13, 11:30am to 1:30pm
125 Durst Ct, Grantsville, MD 21536
• Friendsville:
Wednesday, July 19, 11:30am to 1:30pm
947 Community Dr, Friendsville, MD 21531
• Oakland Mary Browning Senior Center
Wednesday, August 2, 11:30am to 1:30pm
104 East Center Street, Oakland, MD 21550
"We believe that access to technology is essential in today's digital world. Through this initiative, we aim to empower and connect Garrett County residents with the means to enhance their educational, professional, and personal opportunities," said Cheryl DeBerry, Broadband & Energy Manager for Garrett County Government and program coordinator.
The Chromebook distribution program is made possible through a Connected Devices Grant from the Office of Statewide Broadband at the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development in partnership with the Ruth Enlow Libraries of Garrett County.
For the most up-to-date list of distribution events, further information on acceptable verification documents, what to bring to a distribution event, or any questions about the program, please visit https://www.garrettcounty.org/broadband/devices or contact 301-914-1543.
