COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS
MASSACHUSETTS SENATE
STATE HOUSE, BOSTON 02133
Senator Joan B. Lovely
State Senator
2nd Essex District
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
February 19, 2026
$465,545 awarded across Second Essex District from Massachusetts Broadband institute
Funding via Connected & Online Program will support local organizations
(BOSTON—2/19/2026) Senate Assistant Majority Leader Joan B. Lovely (D-Salem) announces that the Massachusetts Broadband Institute has awarded a total of $465,545 across the communities of Beverly, Danvers, Peabody and Salem via the Connected & Online Program.
“Thank you to the Massachusetts Broadband Institute for making these funds available to provide these vital resources to the residents of the Second Essex District. This funding will allow residents to access education, workforce training, telehealth and other digital resources that will improve their lives,” said Senator Lovely.
Organizations receiving funding include:
- City of Beverly – $234,438.65
- Danvers Public Schools – $48,050
- Amazigh American Network Organization in Peabody – $22,419.69
- North Shore Community Development Coalition in Salem – $121,624.05
- Salem Housing Authority – $39,013.18
The Connected & Online Program is a new initiative that will distribute up to 27,000 internet-enabled devices, along with assistive technology and supportive equipment, to eligible organizations across Massachusetts. The goal of the program is to expand access to education, workforce training and telehealth by establishing public device lending programs and on-site device stations, especially in Gateway Cities and rural communities. Devices will be fully loaded with software, selected accessories and warranties at no cost to awardees.
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