Katie Cadiao, County of San Diego Communications Office 

Over 150 local foster families set up computers in their homes over the holidays thanks to a collaboration between the County of San Diego and the San Diego Futures Foundation. The families and children received free computers as part of the 20th Annual Computers for Foster Families Program.

In addition to 150 desktop devices, the County also gave away more than 25 laptops to young adults in the Extended Foster Care Program.

“I am a foster grandparent for my 14-year-old. I think it will give her the opportunity to reach out into the world and get more information than I can give her,” shared one foster grandparent.

“It does make the community stronger when we are more knowledgeable and can access the knowledge we need to continue to live and thrive,” shared another foster parent.

Started in 2001 by San Diego County Supervisor Greg Cox, the Computers for Foster Families Program aims to improve the lives of foster children and their families through the gift of technology. The initiative supports foster families by increasing computer and internet access for some of the region’s most vulnerable children.

The computers, which were formerly used by County employees, are refurbished by the San Diego Futures Foundation before they are distributed to foster families.

To date, there have been approximately 3,456 computers donated to foster parents, and just recently, transitioning foster youth. Watch how the day impacted the community below. 

This story was originally featured on County News Center. https://www.countynewscenter.com/foster-families-receive-free-computers-during-county-giveaway