Stronger Broadband Connectivity
Taking the leap to seek help for mental illness is difficult for many. It requires being vulnerable and exploring extremely personal emotions. Telehealth appointments have made access to mental health services more accessible, allowing individuals to seek assistance in the comfort of their own homes.
Sadly, many Idahoans need more internet bandwidth to receive telehealth services. This is a significant concern, especially throughout Idaho’s isolated communities with limited providers. That is why Empower Idaho is partnering with Imagine Idaho Foundation to help bring affordable and reliable internet to Idahoans.
Imagine Idaho Foundation
Imagine Idaho Foundation is a local nonprofit that works with rural communities to help bring broadband to their residents. A vital milestone is quickly approaching for the State of Idaho to secure funding to bring broadband to these communities. That opportunity is the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program within the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.
BEAD designates $42.45 billion for broadband projects around the country. Idaho will receive $100 million at a minimum, however, Idaho can qualify for $500 million or more to address our connectivity issues. Idahoans need and deserve this enhanced support.
Secure Grant Funds
The time is now for communities and mental health advocates to work together with organizations, including Imagine Idaho, to secure grant funds once the State is awarded its allotment. Imagine Idaho Foundation is already working with many Idaho counties and cities. The Foundation can help connect mental health advocates to broadband planners to ensure every Idaho household is served.
Remove Barriers to Mental Health Treatment
The last barrier in the way of treatment for mental illness should not be a lack of reliable internet service in Idaho. Empower Idaho encourages anyone interested in improving broadband in your community to reach out to Imagine Idaho.
Contact Imagine Idaho Foundation Director Christina Culver at Christina@imagineidaho.org to learn about options in your community to bring residents the internet access required for behavioral health telehealth and more.
Learn More About Imagine Idaho Foundation
Go to Imagine Idaho to learn more.
