KJ Mullins-Toronto: A pilot program at one of Toronto’s Community Housing tenant groups will allow residents to have free Internet access for the year.

The Toronto Community Housing tenant group at 155 Sherbourne St. has been given 30 retired laptops from the city plus a wireless hotspot that allows for Internet access in and around the building. Residents will also receive computer and software training. Tenants have a process in place to sign out the laptops.

“For some residents, this is their first real exposure to computers and the Internet, and this pilot is very exciting for them.  As they socialize with neighbours in the common area, they will be able to develop and improve computer skills, research job and training opportunities, and access information and services most of us take for granted. Computers and the internet are an important part of today’s world, and it is vital that no one is left behind,” said Councillor Pam McConnell (Ward 28 Toronto Centre-Rosedale).

This initiative is part of the city’s “Public Police” Pilots Projects that provides free or low-cost Internet access to residents in Priority Investment Neighbourhoods. If the results are positive from the 155 Sherbourne Street program it is possible that the City of Toronto will provide the program to other residents in the 13 Priority Neighbourhoods for Investment.