HTC has partnered with The Village Group to help provide Internet connectivity to local students at the Plantersville Cultural Center and the Plantersville Community Center. The Wi-Fi hotspots, which will be accessible in the centers’ parking lots Monday-Saturday from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m., will allow students to use the center for Internet access to continue eLearning education.
 
“Georgetown County students have access to Chromebooks, but many students in this area do not have access to Internet. eLearning has been a challenge for these families,” said Ray Funnye, executive director of The Village Group. “With these Wi-Fi hotspots, we’ll be able to continue to support our local children virtually and help ensure they finish out the school year successfully.”
 
The Village Group is a nonprofit group that serves approximately 88% of Plantersville Elementary School students in an after-school program. Its long-term goal is to help children grow up and have meaningful jobs to support and sustain their families and be a contributing member of their community. The newly installed Wi-Fi hotspot from HTC is a way for The Village Group to help students with their eLearning projects. The Village Group also provides snacks and an afternoon meal to students.
 
With South Carolina schools being closed for the remainder of the school year, families are reliant on dependable Internet service to continue their child’s education. The Wi-Fi hotspots at the Plantersville Cultural Center and the Plantersville Community Center aren’t the only hotspots available for students within the county. HTC previously installed hotspots in the parking lots of Andrews High School, Carvers Bay High School, Georgetown High School, and Waccamaw High School.
 
“HTC knows how important education is to our local students and is committed to ensuring they have reliable connectivity during these uncertain times,” said Tom Vitt, HTC director of public relations. “We’re proud to partner with The Village Group to help bridge the digital gap for the students and families of Plantersville.”
 
Reliable Internet access during the COVID-19 pandemic helps keep families connected and students informed. HTC is honored to serve Georgetown County communities, especially during these uncertain times.