As technology continues to reshape every aspect of modern life, the digital divide remains a significant barrier for over 32 million Americans, even more so for underserved Hispanic communities.
PepsiCo is addressing this gap head-on through its partnership with the LULAC National Service Centers (LNESC), committing another $150,000 to the P.U.E.N.T.E.S. program – which aims to empower families with critical digital skills and create pathways to economic and educational opportunities.
PepsiCo’s focus on digital literacy
The global snack giant has committed more than $500,000 to the P.U.E.N.T.E.S. (Pathways to Uplift and Empower through Novel Technology and Education Services) program since 2022.
The bilingual project provides crucial training and resources to families, particularly those in underserved Hispanic communities. The goal is simple but powerful: to give individuals the tools they need to navigate the digital world effectively, opening new doors to jobs, education and economic opportunities.
“PepsiCo Food North America (PFNA) is dedicated to creating real and lasting economic opportunities for underserved communities nationwide,” a spokesperson told Bakery&Snacks.
“Our ongoing support for LNESC’s P.U.E.N.T.E.S. program has helped provide vital training and educational support for families to be successful in a digital environment.
“The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated the need for training to use online tools and digital resources, as more services moved into a virtual setting. To fill this gap, PFNA partnered with LNESC to expand its P.U.E.N.T.E.S. program – designed to promote an efficient and effective use of digital tools, enhance skills and improve internet literacy for low-income students and Spanish-speaking parents.
“Through the bilingual digital education program, participants are given access to resources to do schoolwork, job training, financial aid searches, ESL (English as a Second Language) courses, online citizenship, college applications and more. These tools are designed to build confidence and foster skill development for the entire family, opening the doors to future career opportunities.
The program’s reach is growing: with PepsiCo’s support, it has already impacted 450 participants across six US cities.
“PFNA’s support has helped grow the program to multiple markets around the country, demonstrating our commitment to supporting scalable initiatives that unlock economic opportunities and build pathways to prosperity for underserved and underrepresented communities,” the PepsiCo spokesperson told this site.
For these families, P.U.E.N.T.E.S has done more than teach digital literacy – it has strengthened family bonds and community ties.
San Antonio mother Melody Urbina said the program has not only helped her six-year-old son but also brought her family and community closer.
“The program is about more than just technology,” said Urbina.
“We’ve created a strong network with other families. The program has facilitated communication across different cultures and generations, which is especially important in Hispanic communities.”
Economic mobility through technology
The impact of digital literacy goes far beyond just knowing how to send emails or use office software. In today’s economy, access to digital tools is critical for education, employment and connecting with community resources. In Hispanic communities – where digital access may be limited – programs like P.U.E.N.T.E.S. offer a lifeline, providing skills that enable families to access a wealth of opportunities.
Besides basic computer skills, it provides resources that help participants engage with school systems, apply for jobs, access financial aid and more. This holistic approach to digital literacy helps families not only gain confidence in using technology but also opens doors to future career opportunities and lifelong learning.
“As someone who immigrated to the US from Venezuela, I am incredibly proud of our partnership with LNESC and our shared passion to create sustainable economic opportunities for underserved communities,” said Antonio Escalona, senior VP of Emerging Business at PFNA.
“Putting people and their experiences at the forefront is essential to our business success. We take great pride in our efforts to enhance digital literacy and we’re excited to continue supporting this impactful initiative.”
Results that matter
The measurable success of the P.U.E.N.T.E.S. program demonstrates its far-reaching impact.
More than 90% of participants reported increased confidence in using technology, while 92% said they now feel comfortable performing basic computer tasks like sending emails or using office applications. These may seem like small steps, but in an increasingly digital world, they are foundational skills that lead to greater opportunities.
“Continuing this partnership with PFNA means so much for our students and families,” said Richard Royal, LNESC executive director.
“Hearing stories from participants about how they’ve benefitted from these resources is what it’s all about.”
These stories are not just statistics: they reflect real, meaningful change in the lives of Hispanic families.
Urbina’s experience, for example, highlights the broader impact of PFNA’s investment in digital literacy: creating intergenerational learning environments where children, parents and even grandparents can work together to build the skills they need to succeed.
For Hispanic families who may have been left behind by the rapid digital transformation, this program offers a lifeline to a brighter future.
Scaling the impact
While PFNA’s investment in P.U.E.N.T.E.S. has already reached hundreds of families, the company’s commitment to digital literacy is far from over. With plans to scale the program to more markets, it’s firmly positioning itself as a leader in fostering economic opportunity through digital empowerment.
“We are proud of our impact to date and look forward to continuing our commitment to support scalable initiatives that unlock economic opportunities and build pathways to prosperity for underserved and underrepresented communities,” the PepsiCo spokesperson told us.
As the program continues to grow and reach more communities, PFNA’s commitment to fostering digital literacy will ensure that future generations are better equipped to navigate the challenges of an increasingly digital world. Through this initiative, PepsiCo is not just celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month – it’s creating pathways to prosperity for Hispanic families across the country.
