Detroit Seniors Go Digital with New Free Laptop Program

In a significant move to bridge the digital divide, the City of Detroit has collaborated with AT&T and Human I-T to distribute 100 free refurbished laptops to seniors across Wayne County.

This initiative aims to empower older adults by providing essential technology and digital literacy training.

The distribution event, held recently, not only provided laptops but also included comprehensive training sessions to help recipients navigate the online world confidently.

For many seniors, digital access has become indispensable for daily activities.

One recipient expressed her enthusiasm, stating, "I am very, very, very happy I came in today."

Another participant highlighted the necessity of staying connected, noting, "Everything is digital and everything is on the internet now, so you have to have it."

John Emra, president of the AT&T Atlantic Region, emphasized the importance of internet access, stating, "The reality is there are too many Americans who don't have access to the internet, and the reality today is if you don't have access to the internet, you really can't do anything."

Recognizing the unique challenges technology presents to older generations, Wayne County Executive Warren Evans remarked, "People of my generation and a little before we didn't grow up around technology, we're not hardwired for technology, but technology is the future. It's today."

Beyond providing hardware, the program offers digital literacy training to help seniors build skills and confidence online.

One Detroit resident expressed her gratitude for the training, hoping it will help her become more independent: "I want to learn how to do it all by myself so I know what I am doing."

The training also covers important safety topics, including how to avoid online scams.

Another participant shared, "It has helped me, and if they have another one to come and learn, then I'd be willing to come because I learned a lot about the scammers today because I always get fooled by them."

For recipients like Charlie Thornton Jr., the laptop represents much more than technology.

He described it as "a great blessing to me."

Another recipient emphasized how helpful the new technology will be in her daily life, stating, "It's going to be quite helpful, it's quite helpful to have."

This initiative is part of a broader effort to ensure that all Detroit residents, regardless of age, have the tools and knowledge to thrive in an increasingly digital world.

By addressing both access and education, the city and its partners are making significant strides toward digital equity.