Computers and access to the internet are fundamental to a child’s education. But what about families who can’t afford a computer, like the children who are in the foster care system throughout Whitfield County, Georgia?
A group of Whitfield County foster children took part in a Digital Literacy Camp that taught them state-of-the-art computer skills. The students were taught Microsoft Office by certified professionals from Instructional Access Inc. (http://www.instructionalaccess.com), a California based company. After the 21 hours of weekend training, the students were allowed to take home the laptop computer and color printer they learned on at no cost.
Each of the 23 Whitfield County participants were members of foster families and ranged in age from 14 to 20. The children chosen for the program were at-risk students who excel in school, but can’t afford to buy a computer themselves. Many were still in high school, while others were working on college degrees.
The Digital Literacy Camps for at-risk youth in foster care are aimed at preparing participants for adult independence. “We term ourselves as a solution for the digital divide,” says Instructional Access’ Vice President Steve Martin. “We feel we’re truly putting the tools of the future in the hands of people who are going to need it the most.”
For more information, please visit: http://www.prlog.org/10824724-free-computers-for-county-foster-children-helps-bridge-the-digital-divide.html
