Frito-Lay announced a renewed partnership with Lulac National Educational Service Centers, Inc. (LNESC) in commemoration of Hispanic Heritage Month for a second year. The initiative, in collaboration with LNESC’s Pathways to Uplift and Empower via Novel Technology and Education Services (P.U.E.N.T.E.S.) program, crosses the language translation and digital divide to empower Hispanic families to learn digital literacy skills. Frito-Lay will support the digital literacy initiative in six U.S. markets by 2023, as well as build learning environments for needy parents and children.

“Frito-Lay remains committed to supporting our Hispanic communities by providing the resources necessary to thrive in an increasingly digital world,” stated Wilson Alarcon, Frito-Lay senior manager and President of Frito-Lay’s Adelante Employee Resource Group. “Our commitment to ensuring equal opportunities for all is unwavering, and we’re proud to continue this program in the communities we call home.”

Frito-Lay’s commitment in the partnership’s first year provides a road to digital literacy for more than 250 families across the United States. Before beginning the program, 51.5% of participants were not completely comfortable with technology. After completing the P.U.E.N.T.E.S. training, all participants felt more comfortable with technology.

“What began as a call to action to create access to online resources for struggling families during the wake of the pandemic has proven digital literacy to be essential not only in times of crisis, but as a necessity in everyday life,” said Richard Roybal, the executive director of the LNESC. “We are excited to find creative and innovative methods to bring digital education and understanding of technology to families in the communities we serve.”

In 2023, the program will be completed.

Frito-Lay

The bilingual digital education program has a tangible, long-term impact by providing participants with information and resources to help them with schoolwork, financial aid searches, job training, job searches, ESL courses, online citizenship, résumés, college applications, and GED preparation, as well as other online tools to improve their employment status and open future opportunities.

“I would recommend this to everyone,” stated Cecil Dozier, an LNESC digital literacy beneficiary in Topeka, Kansas. “Because I am a slow learner, the teachers were very patient with me.” I’m trying to get my daughter to come with her children to learn more about this. This is what we require to function in today’s environment.”

This program celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month and complements PepsiCo’s Racial Equality Journey (REJ) Hispanic Initiative, a $172 million commitment to increase Hispanic representation in its workforce, support Hispanic-owned businesses, and help create economic opportunities in Hispanic American communities. Frito-Lay’s long-standing dedication and history of aiding local communities across America for more than 90 years is reinforced by this REJ program.

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