Refurbished computers help low-income kids go high-tech

TIFTON -- A donation from the Tifton Wal-Mart Distribution Center will help a local program to provide low-income kids with computer time.

A group of community partners including the Tifton Police Department, the Tifton Housing Authority and CityNet has set up donated computers in the Community Involvement Center in the housing authority's complex on Old Omega Road, Lt. Steve Hyman of the TPD said Friday. Volunteer Terry Bowers refurbished the computers and set up the system, and the $1,500 Wal-Mart check will go to buy supplies.

Neighborhood children who may not have access to computers after school will be invited to come in and use the computers for research and homework, overseen by community volunteers.

"We've got everything set up, and we're working with volunteers who are going to come in and help the kids," Hyman said. "We should be open in the next couple of weeks."

Tentative days and hours of operation are from 4 to 7 or 8 p.m., Monday through Thursday, with possible time on the weekends as well.

"We're driven by volunteers, so anybody who's willing to give a couple of hours is more than welcome to contact us," Chief Jim Smith said. "Retired schoolteachers, high school kids, ABAC students, anybody who wants to do a community project could help."

Smith said one person has already volunteered to help younger kids with reading. "This isn't just for people who live in the area," he said. "We'll help anybody."

For more information or to volunteer, call the Tifton Police Department at 382-3132.



To contact city editor Florence Rankin, call 382-4321, ext. 209.