Tamariki
and rangatahi from local kura and youth groups have received a visit from
Western Bay of Plenty District Council’s laptop fairy, bringing donations of
laptop computers.
In an
effort to break down the digital divide and give old Council laptops a new
lease of life, Western Bay of Plenty District Council has launched a laptop
donation scheme for groups in need of digital resources.
Waihi
Beach Primary School, Katikati Community Centre Rangatahi Pathway Project, and
COLAB Te Puke’s Homework Hub all received laptops which Council no longer had
use for.
Council’s
Community Advisor, or the ‘laptop fairy’ Sam Wilburn had the wonderful task of
dropping off the laptops to the lucky recipients.
“It was
fantastic to be able to donate these much-needed digital devices to groups that
really appreciate them,” says Sam.
“We know
that the ability to access digital devices is incredibly important, now more
than ever, and Council is happy to have the opportunity to help in some way.
The laptops have been completely refurbished, with plenty of life still left in
them for tamariki to learn and thrive.”
Waihi
Beach School Principal Rachael Coll says the laptops will help with the digital
literacy and competencies that they need, as well as assisting in their goal
for digital equity – to provide access for all.
“Digital
access has proven to be variable and inequitable in our school community,
especially during the lockdowns with limited access to the tools required for
learning from home.” says Rachael.
“Ngā
mihi nui to Western Bay of Plenty District Council for the laptops, we are very
grateful.”
Katikati
Community Centre Youth Employment Coach Melody Lamb says they are approaching
the second phase of their Rangatahi Pathway Project, assisting rangatahi in
their journey to become work-ready and employed.
“Many of
the rangatahi we are aiming to reach in this phase will not have a computer for
various reasons, and the fact we can now offer a computer to use will add huge
value in helping them reach their goals,” says Melody.
COLAB
Wellbeing and Resilience Facilitator Hinemoa Wetere says the laptops will go a
long way, helping young people in Te Puke that have limited resources and
internet services.
“Some of
our rangatahi don't have access to laptops or computers, so this donation will
help bridge that gap” says Hinemoa.
Council
will continue to donate laptops that are no longer suitable for Council work to
kura and youth programmes as they become
available.
