75 Laptops Given Away In Westchester By STEM Alliance And AT&T

WESTCHESTER COUNTY, NY — For students and families, computers have become a necessity rather than a luxury, and here in Westchester, organizations are helping to make sure families don't get left behind.

AT&T and Human-IT provided The STEM Alliance of Westchester County with 75 refurbished laptops to distribute to pre-selected families in need this week throughout Westchester County. The three points of distribution were The Port Chester Carver Center in Port Chester, Alcance Latino in White Plains, and the Community Resource Center in Mamaroneck.

"AT&T has been a dedicated supporter of digital equity initiatives here in Westchester and beyond," Margaret Käufer, President of The STEM Alliance, said. "In today’s world, device ownership is critical to thriving as a student but also for success in so many other arenas: looking for a job, banking and even saving money. We applaud AT&T’s commitment and are thrilled that these students are starting their school year equipped for success."

The STEM Alliance says that the devices were distributed in order to provide support to those with previous computer skills but lacking devices. The partnership is serving teenagers working toward high school/college completion and adults seeking employment opportunities.

"On behalf of the Community Resource Center, we extend our deepest gratitude to The STEM Alliance for their invaluable partnership in advancing digital equity within our community," Jirandy Martinez, Executive Director at the Community Resource Center, said. "Through their generous donation of 25 laptops, our client members now have increased access to essential digital tools, enabling them to engage more fully in educational, professional, and personal development opportunities. This contribution is not just a gift of technology, but a profound investment in the future of our community. We are excited to continue working together to bridge the digital divide and empower those we serve."

According to The Stem Alliance, an estimated 11 percent of households in New York do not have access to the internet or connected devices needed to fully participate in the online world, an issue called the "digital divide."

AT&T has committed over $2.1 million from 2021–2023 to organizations and initiatives focused on closing the digital divide in New York, and has funded 6,100+ laptops for students and families across the Empire State. The effort is part of the AT&T Connected Learning initiative to help address the digital divide through internet accessibility, affordability and safe adoption. AT&T says it is committing $5 billion to help 25 million people get and stay connected to high-speed internet by 2030.

"AT&T is proud to collaborate with organizations like The STEM Alliance to help close the digital equity gap in Westchester County," John Emra, President, AT&T Atlantic Region, said. "Connectivity is vital for students, and we’re glad we can provide these resources to those that need them most."

Learn more about the AT&T Connected Learning initiative here.