
Introduction
This brief is part of a study focused more broadly on human services programs in rural contexts. Through a mixed methods research design that includes administrative and secondary data alongside 12 site visits, in tandem with engagement from human services practitioners and other subject matter experts, this project achieved the following: 1) provided an in-depth description of human services programs in rural contexts; 2) determined the remaining need for human services in rural communities; and 3) identified opportunities for strengthening the capacity of human services programs to promote the economic and social well-being of individuals, families, and communities in rural contexts.
This brief draws on findings from our interviews with human services staff to describe broadband access in rural areas, clarify how limited access is a significant barrier to social and economic well-being, and identify opportunities to increase access to broadband through human services programs in rural contexts.
Purpose
The purpose of this brief is to help inform broadband access providers, human services practitioners, federal program officers, and policymakers of the impact of limited access of broadband internet in rural communities.
Key Findings and Highlights
This brief found that rural counties in the United States, particularly in the Delta and Native Lands regions, experience limited access to broadband internet.
Inadequate broadband internet access is a significant barrier to both rural county residents and human services providers. In the wake of COVID-19, this lack of access has further widened the “digital divide” (i.e., unequal access to digital technology between rural and urban areas) as human services programs, like many other aspects of American life, have moved to hybrid or virtual models of service delivery.
Respondents often expressed frustration with funding limitations that prevent programs from providing direct support to a client’s immediate needs (e.g., providing transportation support, broadband access, housing repairs, or childcare funding). Financial flexibility and community partnerships could significantly reduce barriers to broadband access.
Citation
Cain, A., E. Ward, N. Chakraborti, and J. Murdoch. 2022. A Snapshot of Broadband Access in Rural Communities. OPRE Brief #2022-316. Washington, DC: Office of Planning, Research, and Evaluation, Administration for Children and Families, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.