Crossroads Urban Center surveyed 272 food pantry clients between May 1 and May 10, 2013 to see if people were able to communicate with the Utah Department of Workforce Services either through the Internet or by phone. This is important because the application process for the Food Stamp Program, Medicaid and other services is now conducted primarily on-line or over the telephone.

 What we found was striking: of the 272 people we surveyed, only 56.7% had an active email account and only 56.2% had access to a computer. These findings are in stark contrast to the Pew Internet and American Life Project’s data that of households whose incomes are over $75,000/year, 97% used the Internet in 2011.

Read more: Poverty and the Digital Divide in Salt Lake City

We would like to thank the over 100 people who showed up, ate sausage, drank a tasty beverage, and supported Crossroads Urban Center at the third annual Beer, Blues and Brats Benefit Party on Sunday, May 5th.  We would especially like to thank Epic Brewing Company and  Colosimo's for donating the beer and brats andthe fabulous Number Ones for providing some great tunes. A belly dancing performance by the Fourteenth Ward of the Rubber Room Dance Studio was another highlight of the afternoon. The Community Co-op donated the use of the venue, Crowell Advertising again designed our flyers and helped with p.r., and Todd Powelson gave us a great deal on printing. Please support these fine local businesses and musicians! 

Read more: Thank you everyone!