Problem Statement, Proposed Solution and Hub Activities

Reliable access to the internet is an essential need in modern America and those who do not have the means to access the network, such as resettled refugees, are quickly left behind.

In 2016-2018, Global2Mobile removed used and discarded Wi-Fi enabled devices from the e-waste cycle and put it into the hands of Lancaster’s refugee community so they could have access to the internet to further assist in cultural orientation.

For Global2Mobile, Shapers collected lightly-used, wifi-enabled devices from businesses and universities. They cleared devices of personal data and loaded devices with useful apps for language learning, navigation, communication, and web browsing for their future owners. Shapers created curricula to guide refugees in accessing free public wifi and mobile apps from their new-to-them device. Shapers used the curricula to facilitate workshops, in partnership with refugee resettlement agency Church World Service, on how to use the mobile devices and apps. 

Short-term impact

Refugees may access the sprawling public Wi-Fi network in Lancaster city for the purposes of communication, navigation, transportation, education, language learning and banking.

Long-term impact

Refugees are able to access expanded job and educational opportunities from their own wifi-enabled devices.

Available metrics

Twenty-one refugees from Somalia, Democratic Republic of Congo, Syria and Eritrea, ages 12 to 60, participated in free workshops that employed a curriculum developed by Lancaster Shapers.

Collaborators

Church World Service (CWS) Lancaster, Brian Rank, Aidem Media Solutions, Millersville University, and Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology.