ORLANDO, Fla. — The digital divide makes it hard for some families to pay for or access technology.
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But, you can help as local students prepare for a new school year.
WFTV 9 Family Connection and our partners have partnered with the Aeras Foundation for the “Digital Divide Drive” to donate gently used laptops, iPad, or tablets at any local UPS Store.
Many think technology is a luxury, but it’s a necessity for students to succeed in school.
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Those laptops are already making a big difference in the lives of students like Arenzo Henry.
He was supposed to graduate from Jones High School in 2022, but his grandma died that year.
Now, he wears a necklace with a photo of his grandmother to remember the mission she wanted him to complete: his education.
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“It really broke me,” Henry said. “I’m trying to pick the pieces back up and finish what I started for her so she can say, grandson, you did it-- you did what I always wanted you to do--graduate and be someone in life.”
Henry said he is working with the Parramore Kidz Zone to get a GED certificate and then head to trade school.
Like him, others have benefited from the donations.
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Zanaii Grant, a mother of three kids, said her next step is to work towards a new career.
“My plan is to go to nursing school-- That’s my plan right there.’ she said.
Grant and Henry face the same educational barrier: to continue their studies outside the classrooms.
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But, with the Aeras Foundation, they can now have their laptop.
The laptop gives them more flexibility to prepare for their tests from home.
“It’s a big blessing for me and her,” Henry said.
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“When the kids sleep, I can just practice more on the computer,” Grant added.
The Aeras Foundation accepts and recycles used laptops, wipes them clean, and gives them new life by getting them to those in need.
“One or two devices could make a significant impact in two lives or two families,” said David Collins, President of Aeras Foundation
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Those interested have until July 23 to donate their devices.
For tips on how to erase the information on your device before you drop it off, click here.
For a list of The UPS Store location nearest you, click here.
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