United Way of South Sarasota County and Comcast Team Up to Give Back

Following the completion of its $22 million investment to improve the area’s technology infrastructure, Comcast was proud to host the Grand Opening of the area’s new Xfinity store, located at 6511 S. Tamiami Trail. The event was celebrated alongside some very special guests. The local United Way partnered with the media giant to provide laptops for 50 students in need.

The United Way of South Sarasota County was happy to bring along 50 students from the ALICE Project (Asset-Limited, Income-Constrained, Employed) community who were each granted free laptops at the event. From Teen Court, to Atwater Elementary School, the 50 lucky students were also awarded home internet access where needed.

The ALICE Project brings together the United Way SSC, governmental agencies, nonprofits, and corporations throughout the community to evaluate current initiatives and discover innovative approaches to give those in the local ALICE community a voice, not to mention create changes to improve the lives of ALICE citizens and the community at large.

The new technology added to the county will help more than the laptop winners, area schools, and local students.

“Access to advanced Internet and telecommunications services are crucial to Sarasota County’s continued growth,” said Joe Neunder, Vice Chair of the Sarasota County Board of County Commissioners representing District 4. “Comcast’s investment in its local technology infrastructure will not only attract new businesses and help existing businesses grow and compete, but it will also help us continue to attract new residents and developments and, at the end of the day, have a positive impact on our overall quality of life.”

Since 2010, Comcast has made more than $9 million in cash and in-kind contributions to Sarasota non-profits to support activities designed to help residents bridge the digital divide.