City officials are excited to announce the collaboration with Comcast to provide Wi-Fi Lift Zones at the Gathering Place Community Center. This announcement follows the donation of 100 laptops to senior residents at The Gathering Place during a Valentine's Day luncheon hosted by Mayor Vince R. Williams and the City Council. 

“Accessibility to Wi-Fi is critical to navigating this digital age," stated Union City Mayor Vince R. Williams. "A positive SHIFT is happening in Union City through this amazing opportunity! Our residents and scholars deserve a safe space to do homework, connect with family and friends, while also seeking online resources. The City Council and I feel the Lift Zone through our partnership with Comcast at the Gathering Place will provide such a place!”

Lift Zones provide internet connectivity at community centers and other public facilities allowing students to get online, participate in distance learning and do their homework. The sites also benefit adults, connecting them to online education, job searches, healthcare information, and public assistance.

The laptop donation is part of Project UP, Comcast's 10-year, $1 billion pledge to advance digital equity through programs and community partnerships that connect people to the Internet, increase economic mobility, and open doors for the next generation of innovators, entrepreneurs, storytellers, and creators.

As part of their senior-specific programming, in partnership with Comcast and the Urban League of Greater Atlanta, the Gathering Place will provide digital skills training for seniors at the Lift Zone during a five-week course beginning February 24.