Building Digital Equity For Everyone
Our Mission
We’re working to strengthen the digital equity ecosystem across the North Country. By identifying needs and gaps through surveys, focus groups, and community input, we aim to expand access and opportunities for all residents —sustainably and equitably.
What is Digital Equity?
Digital equity ensures that all residents — especially those in vulnerable or underserved communities — have what they need to fully participate in today’s connected world. That means:
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Reliable, affordable internet access
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Access to the right devices and technical support
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The digital skills to connect, learn, and thrive
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With digital equity, everyone can take part in opportunities across education, employment, healthcare, and essential services — without being left behind.
Who We Are
Adirondack Health Institute and Fort Drum Regional Health Planning Organization, has expanded its telehealth efforts by establishing the North Country Digital Inclusion Coalition. This Coalition brings together representatives from across the North Country region, including healthcare providers, telehealth specialists, community leaders, telecommunications experts, broadband advocates, local universities, library systems, and other key stakeholders in digital equity.
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The Coalition’s mission is to address the challenges and barriers that both healthcare providers and residents in rural communities face when accessing telehealth services. It also aims to identify effective strategies for delivering and utilizing telehealth, while pinpointing areas for improvement to ensure that these services remain sustainable, accessible, and affordable across the region.
Who We Serve — and Why It Matters
At the heart of our mission is digital equity.
The Coalition works across seven counties in Northern New York — Clinton, Essex, Franklin, Hamilton, Jefferson, Lewis, and St. Lawrence — to ensure every resident has access to the digital tools and resources they need to thrive.
We focus on six core populations that are most affected by the digital divide:
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Low-income households
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Older adults
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Veterans
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People with disabilities
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Rural residents
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Formerly incarcerated individuals
For these groups, lack of internet access, digital devices, or digital skills can mean missing out on critical services, education, job opportunities, healthcare, and connection to community.