Computer Connects program provides loaner computers

Nearly 35 families at Southwick Elementary school will receive free loaner computers to take home Wednesday as part of local Net Literacy efforts.

Students from Anthis Career Center refurbish the computers and install freeware programs including word processing, spreadsheet and presentation software. The refurbished computers come from Indiana Surplus, using computers no longer needed by Indiana schools.

Students apply to receive a free computer to take home. This is the second computer giveaway in East Allen County Schools this school year. Earlier about 40 students at Paul Harding High School received computers. Prince Chapman Academy students will receive them later this year.

“Access to and knowledge about computers is critical to local students as we work to build a knowledge-based economy here in Fort Wayne,” said Mayor Tom Henry. “I'€™d like to thank the Anthis students who made these computers ready for students and the parents at Southwick for wanting to be part of this important program that gives the entire family access to a computer at home. Net Literacy is helping to create a culture of computer access and understanding for all Fort Wayne residents.”

Net Literacy, funded through a Verizon Foundation grant, is a coalition of students and adults working to improve computer access and internet literacy for Fort Wayne residents.