Computers in Homes success acknowledged by Council - 10/07/2012

The continuing success of Wanganui’s Computers in Homes project is on the agenda for this week’s Community and Environment Committee on Thursday, July 12.

Computers in Homes started in Wanganui in 2006 and supplies a refurbished computer, training, technical support for twelve months and internet access for six months to families which have school-age children and are without a computer at home.

Since the project began more than 580 families have participated in the programme, which is managed by Alistair Fraser and overseen by the Council’s Digital Communities Group.

Community and Environment Committee Chair Cr Philippa Baker-Hogan welcomes the opportunity for Councillors to receive an update on this project including results from an independent survey, which shows the project is making a difference in many people’s lives.

“Computers in Homes is one of a number of projects that is addressing the digital divide in Wanganui and is doing so in a very successful way.

“By putting a computer into a family home there are a number of benefits including increased access for children to education support and information online, families experience increased connectivity between school and home and it also provides a stepping stone for participants into further education or employment.

“Participants grow in confidence and skills and for 35% of the people surveyed their Computers in Home certificate was the first qualification they had attained.

“Our communities are benefitting from this but there is still a way to go to narrow the digital divide, which is why projects such as this, the Computer Clubhouse and free internet access in our libraries is so important.”

The survey results will be discussed at the Community and Environment Committee on Thursday, July 12 at 2.00pm. The meeting takes place in the Council Chamber and is open to the public.

Computers in Homes will be taking part in TechEx 2012, a free and interactive technology exhibition at the War Memorial Centre from July 20-22. The event is sponsored by Ultrafast Fibre Limited.