Closing the Digital Divide: Stories of Connection From the CPUC’s Recent Grants

Imagine being a student trying to finish your homework, but the family computer is broken, or there is no computer at all. Or picture a parent who wants to help their child succeed but doesn’t have the digital skills to keep up with online schoolwork. For many Californians, these aren’t “what ifs,” they are everyday challenges. 

On September 18, 2025, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) took another step toward changing those scenarios. At its public Voting Meeting, the CPUC approved nearly $200,000 in Digital Divide Grants for community programs across the state. These grants will put Chromebooks, tablets, and training directly into the hands of students, parents, and seniors in low-income communities, giving people the tools they need to thrive in a connected world. 

As our Commissioners discussed the grants at our Voting Meeting, they spoke of what these grants do and why they matter. 

President Alice Reynolds reminded everyone that bridging the digital divide isn’t about just one thing, it’s about creating a complete support system. 

“These are digital literacy services, these are devices that students can take home, there’s teacher training, and this is going to impact hundreds of students. And you also noted that this is a part of our larger Broadband for All efforts… just taking that really comprehensive view, I think is important.”

Her words highlight the bigger picture: this is part of California’s commitment to make Broadband for All a reality.

Commissioner Darcie Houck spoke about who these programs serve - students and families in places that have historically been overlooked. 

“These are programs that are benefiting low-income school districts in urban and rural areas, some of which are areas that have been under-invested in historically… these grants are going to provide take-home devices—laptops and tablets—and help further our broader state efforts to eliminate the digital divide.”

For these communities, a laptop or tablet isn’t just a device, it’s a bridge to new opportunities. 

Commissioner John Reynolds focused on the practical impact of what these grants will mean on the ground.

“These efforts are targeted to areas where the digital divide is still stark, and I believe these steps are moving us in the right direction of getting more access to broadband and other technologies.”

From Chromebooks and headphones for students to training for parents and seniors, his comments bring to life how these grants translate into everyday benefits. 

Why This Matters

Behind every grant is a story: 

• A student able to finish homework on their own computer. 
• A parent gaining confidence to navigate online tools. 
• A senior staying connected with family through digital skills. 

These stories add up to something bigger: a California where no one is left behind in the digital age. 

The CPUC is committed to making that vision real through the Broadband for All initiative. These grants are just one piece of the puzzle, but together with infrastructure and affordability programs, they’re helping to ensure that every Californian has the chance to connect, learn, and succeed. 

To learn more, visit the Digital Divide Grant Program webpage. 

By Taseen Shamim, Public Information Officer