First Computer for Every Child

In this complex and confusing period of contending with the coronavirus, as well as with the economic crisis, gaps have been created between those who are able to afford the purchase of a computer and those who are less fortunate. The city’s Social Services Department currently cares for 3,300 poor families who are struggling with crises resulting from job loss and economic hardship, in addition to the difficulties that they were experiencing prior to the arrival of COVID-19. Our main concern here is focused on 2,000 children and youth at risk, who are liable to descend into dangerous behaviors, as well as to be exposed to parental violence toward them, should they not be in any type of framework and who need to be kept occupied.

Schoolchildren are stuck at home and are being forced to adapt tools for online learning. Unfortunately, many boys and girls from families of little means are finding remote learning difficult, and the gaps are growing and deepening. In addition, it is important to emphasize that many of these children are defined as being youth at risk, and there is growing concern that when they are at home without the supportive, enveloping system of school they will return to modes of risky behaviors. We would like to equip 120 households of underprivileged families with laptop computers, so that they can continue their studies and be able to connect from home and maintain contact with treatment professionals. We have started many programs in the city, such as a program promoting excellence in mathematics and English, and a program providing reinforcement in all subjects, and we want these students to continue in them.