Bridge the gap ending digital poverty CIC

Bridge the Gap Ending Digital Poverty CIC (BTG) began as a vision from my Melissa Francis’s (founder and CEO) lived experience as a Black neurodivergent woman, disabled founder, and carer to two neurodiverse children. She felt the pain of being unseen in systems not built for people like her and I refused to let others face that journey alone.

Since 2020, BTG has supported over 700 individuals with devices, SIM cards, and digital confidence. From young people at risk of exclusion to isolated elders and low-income families, our support is often the bridge between helplessness and opportunity  whether that’s accessing school work, applying for jobs, or simply staying connected.

Running a grassroots organisation with chronic health conditions while raising disabled children has stretched Melissa’s to her limits. There were days she wanted to close BTG and rest  but each time a mum messages saying her child can now learn again, or an elder reconnects with family abroad, she’s reminded why we fight to stay open.

BTG isn’t just an organisation , it’s a lifeline built from lived struggle and community hope. They are rebuilding toward sustainability because digital access shouldn’t be a privilege  it’s a necessity for dignity, equality, and independence.