YMCA distributes 126 laptops to seniors at an event in the Northeast Bronx to help bridge digital divide

AT&T, in collaboration with the YMCA of Greater New York, announced that it has donated $75,000 to the YMCA’s digital literacy program for older adults today. This funding will be used for the purchase of laptops. The announcement came during a surprise laptop giveaway AT&T hosted at the Northeast Bronx YMCA. Representatives from AT&T and the YMCA were joined by State Senator Jamaal Bailey and City Council Member Kevin Riley.

The digital literacy program launched first at the Northeast Bronx Y and will scale to all Bronx YMCA branches (Castle Hill and La Central Ys) in early 2024. The program aims to equip older adults with essential skills for navigating the digital landscape, such as using computers, accessing websites, and utilizing email.

AT&T is providing 126 laptops to be distributed to older adults participating in the digital literacy program at the Bronx branches.  Participants at the Northeast Bronx class are the first to receive these laptops. This support allows Y to incorporate laptop distribution as an essential component not just for this cohort but for future participants of the program.

“Our decade-long partnership with AT&T continues to provide critical resources to our members and communities,” said Sharon Greenberger, President and CEO of the YMCA of Greater New York. “Empowering older adults with the tools to successfully navigate our increasingly digital world is critical to enabling them to connect, thrive, and build community. We thank AT&T for their generous commitment to helping the Y and the communities we serve.”

This initiative aligns with AT&T's national Connected Learning initiative, a $2 billion commitment over three years launched in 2021 to address the digital divide through skills training, computer equipment access, and broadband availability.

“Connected devices allow older adults freedom, convenience, and communication, and it is important that they have the resources to enjoy technology safely and effectively. The YMCA’s dedicated efforts are doing just that. We’re grateful for the opportunity to work alongside them as seniors make the most out of the digital world. We hope this collaborative effort provides New York seniors the confidence and ability to harness the power of connected technology,” said John Emra, President, AT&T Atlantic Region, and YMCA of Greater New York board member.

Since 2012, AT&T has been a key partner of the YMCA of Greater New York, providing grant funding for various programs – including the Y’s Rowe Scholars program – and offering substantial assistance during their COVID and post-COVID rebuilding efforts.

"The future of our seniors in the Bronx and New York City is better and brighter, thanks to the YMCA and AT&T," said Speaker Carl E. Heastie. "The world we live in continues to evolve at a rapid pace and providing digital literacy services to seniors so that nobody gets left behind is essential to life as we know it."

“Community partnerships like this are critical to our ongoing work to bridge the digital divide. I want to thank AT&T and the YMCA of Greater New York for their tireless efforts to empower older adults with the tools and skills they need to thrive in our increasingly digital world. This donation will enable older adults in acquiring critical digital literacy skills and accessing all of the opportunities available–from greater connectivity, essential health services, to participation in the recreational and enrichment activities that improve quality of life for the communities we serve,” said State Senator Jamaal T. Bailey.

“As a steadfast advocate for educational programs supporting the growth and development of our seniors, and with a commitment to the expansion of digital literacy, I applaud the collaboration between AT&T and the YMCA of Greater New York in bolstering digital literacy programs for our senior community in the Bronx. This $75,000 donation to support laptop distribution for the program at the Northeast Bronx YMCA marks a significant stride towards enhancing education and community engagement for older adults in our neighborhood. Bridging the digital divide is crucial for their continued learning and participation in the evolving landscape of technology, ensuring a more connected and empowered community in the Northeast Bronx,” said Council Member Kevin C. Riley.