Frito-Lay’s Bilingual Digital Literacy Program: Empowering Hispanic Communities


11/03/2023


In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, Frito-Lay has reaffirmed its alliance with LULAC National Educational Service Centers, Inc. (LNESC) for another year. This collaboration with LNESC and its P.U.E.N.T.E.S. program aims to bridge the gap in language translation and digital technology, enabling Hispanic families to acquire digital literacy skills. In 2023, Frito-Lay plans to extend its support to the digital literacy program in six U.S. regions, establishing learning spaces for parents and children in need.

Wilson Alarcon, Frito-Lay’s senior manager and President of Adelante Employee Resource Group for Frito-Lay, stated that Frito-Lay is dedicated to aiding Hispanic communities by offering the necessary tools to succeed in a progressively digital society. He emphasized the company’s unwavering commitment to equality and pride in continuing this program in their local communities.

Reflecting on the Success of 2022
In its first year, Frito-Lay’s contribution enabled over 250 families across the U.S. to enhance their digital literacy. Prior to the program, more than half of the participants lacked full confidence in technology. However, upon completion of the P.U.E.N.T.E.S. program, all participants reported an increase in their confidence with technology.

LNESC Executive Director Richard Roybal expressed that what started as a response to provide online resources for families struggling during the pandemic has demonstrated the importance of digital literacy not just in crisis situations, but as a daily necessity. He conveyed excitement about devising creative and innovative ways to impart digital education and technological understanding to families in the communities they serve.

In 2023, the program plans to reach out to vulnerable students and families in Dallas, Topeka, Houston, Los Angeles, San Antonio, and Vancouver (WA).
 
Creating a Lasting Effect
The bilingual digital education program offers a significant, enduring impact by granting participants access to a wealth of information and resources for academic work, financial aid exploration, job training, job hunting, ESL courses, online citizenship, resume building, college applications, and GED preparation, among other online tools to enhance their employment prospects and unlock future opportunities.

Cecil Dozier, a beneficiary of the LNESC digital literacy program in Topeka, Kansas, highly recommends the program. He appreciated the patience of the teachers as he considers himself a slow learner. He is encouraging his daughter and her children to join and learn more, emphasizing the necessity of such knowledge in today’s world.

This initiative, which celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month, aligns with PepsiCo’s Racial Equality Journey (REJ) Hispanic Initiative. This initiative involves a $172 million commitment to enhance representation within its workforce, support Hispanic-owned businesses, and foster economic opportunities in Hispanic American communities. This REJ initiative underscores Frito-Lay’s longstanding dedication and history of supporting local communities across America for over nine decades.