In Alaska, more than 3,000 youth are facing homelessness – often without basic human accommodations or tools to navigate daily life. This is coupled with an ever-changing digital world that requires a tier of technology that is not accessible for all, putting young people who are already struggling at a greater disadvantage to pursue educational and employment opportunities.
Locally, Covenant House Alaska is working around the clock to provide a safe space and new way forward for youth experiencing these hardships. Their immediate and long-term support provides life-changing employment and educational opportunities for thousands of young people across the state.
To support Covenant House and the youth they serve, AT&T and Human-I-T recently worked with them to provide 100 youth with laptops and backpacks filled with educational supplies as they look to pursue the next chapter of their lives.
“These laptops and backpacks are more than just tools; they’re gateways to opportunity for the youth we serve at Covenant House Alaska,” said Alison Kear, CEO Covenant House Alaska. “In today’s digital world, access to technology is crucial for education, job searches, and staying connected. AT&T’s generous contribution will empower our young people to bridge the digital divide, pursue their goals, and build brighter futures, and we’re grateful for partners like AT&T who help make this possible.”
The laptop and backpack distribution are part of the AT&T Connected Learning® initiative to help address the digital divide through internet accessibility, affordability and safe adoption. AT&T has also committed $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 Covenant House to help close the digital equity gap. Connectivity is vital for everyone, and we are thrilled to provide today’s youth with the resources they need to be successful.