Millions of people face barriers to opportunity because they don’t have a computer. We’re working to change that.
1 in 7 households in the United States is without a large-screen computer.
Without one, it’s nearly impossible to apply for a job, attend school, manage healthcare, or access critical services online.
New research confirms what communities have long known: device ownership is important in meaningful internet adoption.
Not having a computer shapes everything from educational outcomes to employment opportunities and health access.
These devices are essential for what experts call “beneficial internet use,” which includes:
- Conducting job searches and completing applications
- Accessing government services like voter registration or driver’s license renewal
- Using telehealth platforms to connect with healthcare providers
- Managing personal health records and researching medical information
Digitunity partners with communities to make computer ownership possible for everyone, not through short-term fixes, but by transforming the systems that make it possible. Explore our latest state-level data showing how many households lack computers in the United States.
What is Needed?
- Reliable computers
- Affordable internet access
- Digital literacy training
- Accessible technical support
- Device repair and upkeep
Who is Most Affected?
- Students
- Older adults
- Veterans
- Individuals with disabilities
- Low income households
Digital gaps are widespread, impacting communities across the country. Closing these gaps requires an understanding of local needs. Explore the challenges and opportunities using our Interactive Heat Map, which provides insights into disparities at the national, state, and county levels.
How to Use the Map:
- Choose a Metric: Select “No Computer” or other aspects of device ownership in the drop-down menu.
- State and County Details: Click on a region for household and demographic insights.
- Quick Snapshots: Hover over regions to view trends.
- Reset View: Use the back arrow in the top-right corner at any time.
This tool equips communities, advocates, and decision-makers with actionable data to drive change.
Digitunity helps more people own computers by shaping and strengthening the systems that make it possible.
Systems Level Approach
Learn how we work at the systems level to expand computer ownership.
Give Today
Support this important work by donating computers or making a financial contribution.
National Network
A growing national network of community organizations are working together to expand device ownership for everyone.
Three Key Issues
The digital divide is caused by a number of interwoven, systemic issues. While Digitunity’s work centers on all aspects of device ownership, access to robust and affordable internet and having the skills to use a computer productively are also essential.
Computers
Everyone needs a computer with up-to-date functionality and support.
Internet
Millions of people do not have access to the internet due to affordability or lack of physical connectivity.
Broadband Deployment Report
Digital Skills
Everyone needs to know how to use a computer safely, and perform common tasks such as sending email, using websites, and utilizing common applications like spreadsheets and word processing.
