South Ward Promise Neighborhood gifts 50 laptops to bridge the technology divide

To help bridge the technology divide in Newark’s South Ward, South Ward Promise Neighborhood (SWPN), an initiative of the BRICK Education Network, graciously gifted 50 new Dell Chromebooks to Newark Opportunity Youth Network (NOYN). Students at LEAD Charter School, the education initiative of NOYN, will receive the laptops, not only to use for the school year, but to keep for continued learning. 

The devices were provided by the Take on Race “One Million Devices Now” campaign and in collaboration with Harlem Children’s Zone and BRICK Education Network in response to Covid 19. As a recipient, BRICK was able to purchase brand new Dell Chromebook laptops to distribute to students and families in need of technological assistance. The pandemic has illuminated the digital divide in Newark, so the laptop distribution was designed to provide access and opportunities to families across the city. 

SWPN gifted 50 Chromebooks to NOYN’s program participants, specifically young people who live in the South Ward, to meet today’s need. But instead of returning these laptops at the end of the school year, young people can keep these laptops for years to come. 

“As lifelong learners, students need ongoing access to the proper equipment and resources for their educational pathway. We’re so thankful for SWPN’s gift to our young people and grateful they will be equipped with the tools needed to support their growth even after they’ve moved on from LEAD,” said Jasmine Joseph-Forman, Chief Program Officer of NOYN.

SWPN’s donation continues to support its College and Career Readiness Collaborative Action Networks (CANs) that focus on supporting post-secondary planning for young people. Members of the College and Career Readiness CAN are NOYN, Abbott Leadership Institute (ALI), Newark College Institute (NCI), and Leaders for Life (L4L).

“The mission of South Ward Promise Neighborhood is to create safe and healthy communities in the South Ward,” said Justine Asanteof SWPN. “By partnering with organizations like NOYN and providing direct support to its students, we are able to do exactly that.”