“Never had access to a computer so I’m learning," says Delbridge. "I’m also in computer classes and like to learn all I can, because I never had the opportunity to.”

Philadelphia city officials estimate 41 percent of residents cannot afford computers or to pay for Internet access. But Mayor Michael Nutter plans to change that.

“You can't truly be free if you don't have information," he says. "You can’t truly be connected if you have no ability to be connected.”

Nutter has added technology improvements to Philadelphia’s most recent infrastructure plan, which typically maps out future transportation and utility systems, housing developments and public buildings. Experts, like Andrew Buss, from the city’s division of technology, say that’s a vital step in closing the digital divide.

“It’s kind of a new mindset that technology has to be viewed across the city’s infrastructure and it’s a very important part of it,” says Buss.

So important that, over the next two years, Philadelphia plans to set up 48 computer centers - like the one at the People’s Emergency Center - in other shelters, recreation centers and libraries.

It will also distribute more than 5,000 laptops to low-income families and create public wifi spots for free wireless Internet access. The project will bring the city closer to digital equality. That's an important goal, according to Nicol Turner Lee, director of the Media and Technology Institute for the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies.