Families who are struggling financially could receive some help for their students’ educational technology needs through the Bridge the Gap Digital Wallet initiative launched by Governor Kevin Stitt. The program will connect up to 5,000 low income Oklahoma families with $1,500 grants to purchase technology, materials or supplies.
Stitt is allocating $8 million from the Governor’s Emergency Education Relief (GEER) Fund for the Bridge the Gap Digital Wallet program.
“As our students face disruptions caused by COVID-19, and more schools are turning to distance learning this new school year, we must ensure all students, no matter their financial situation, have the supplies necessary to access their schoolwork,” said Stitt. “Bridge the Gap puts the power in Oklahoma families’ hands to choose what materials are most necessary to make sure their students are academically successful. This could be buying new technology, accessing online curriculum, or buying books and supplies for learning at home. We’re proud to offer this program that provides parents with the flexibility they need in order to meet the needs of their individual student.”
Families of four which make less than $26,200 a year will be given priority in the program. However, they must apply online to qualify.
Every Kid Counts Oklahoma will administer the Bridge the Gap grant program. Qualifying families will be given more than 30 options for choosing education materials, supplies, technology and books.
The grant application is available now at everykidcountsok.org/digital-wallet.
