PACOIMA, Calif., Aug. 9, 2002 (PRIMEZONE) -- MEDIA ADVISORY --
What: Low-income families from Pacoima in the Northeast San Fernando Valley graduate from a ten-week comprehensive technology skills course and receive brand new computers and peripherals from the Youth Policy Institute (YPI) and public and private sponsors.
A $2.6 million partnership between YPI, L.A. City Council President Alex Padilla, the City of Los Angeles, the State of California, Pacoima Elementary School (LAUSD), and corporate donors including Verizon, SBC Pacific Bell, Microsoft, AT&T, and Washington Mutual, bridges the state's growing digital divide by not only providing low-income families with the technology they need at home, but also teaching children and parents the technology skills that will benefit them for life.
When: Saturday, August 10, 2002, 10:00 a.m.
Why: The growing digital divide in California puts low-income families at grave risk of falling behind in education and other life and career skills -- seriously limiting opportunity for those who already face great challenges. In response to this growing problem, the Valley Family Technology Project (VFTP) works with 4th graders at Pacoima Elementary School, their parents and their teachers through a variety of innovative technology programs. Parents who complete a ten-week computer training course (60 hours) receive a new computer and valuable technology skills for their dedication to the program. Over 125 families have received a computer, printer, Microsoft Office software and one year of free Internet access.
Who: The following individuals are available -- in addition to the participating parents and their children -- for interviews regarding the success of the VFTP and its impact on the community:
-- L.A. City Council President Alex Padilla
-- Dixon Slingerland, Director, YPI
-- Mario Matute, Project Director, VFTP
Where: Pacoima Elementary School Auditorium
11016 Norris Ave. (Enter on Herrick Ave.)
Pacoima, CA 91331