(January 26, 2021) –
During the entire month of February, the Jewish Federation of Greater Houston is partnering with Comp-U-Dopt on a city-wide technology drive to support local schoolchildren. Community members across the city are encouraged to donate their used desktop and laptop computers as well as accessories, which will then be refurbished and distributed to Houston-area students in need.
Donations can be made at any one of the following sites: the Jewish Federation of Greater Houston, Congregation Or Ami, Houston Congregation for Reform Judaism, and Congregation Beth Israel. Visit www.houstonjewish.org for more information and specific hours.
Comp-U-Dopt was founded with the belief that every child deserves equal access to education and opportunity. Houston Executive Director Colin Dempsey estimates that there are currently 40,000 students in Houston alone who still do not have access to computers. This makes virtual learning nearly impossible and further exacerbates the digital divide for so many young learners.
“Jewish teachings remind us that one of the most important ways to help others is to ask, listen, and prioritize their needs over our own,” said Federation Director of Social Action Sacha Bodner.
The partnership with Comp-U-Dopt is an opportunity for the Federation to engage people in a socially distanced service project, raise awareness of the technology gap, and collect supplies that will benefit entire families.
This technology drive is a product of the Federation’s new Social Action Network, a collaboration of lay and professional staff members from 30+ local Jewish institutions that is dedicated to engaging in and promoting meaningful community service in our region such as the Thankful Thursday Toiletry Drive this past November benefiting Braes Interfaith. During monthly virtual meetings, members collaborate, learn, and share resources to help Houston’s Jewish community in four key areas of learning, serving, relationship building, and sharing stories of hope.
If you are in need of a computer or know of a family in need, you can learn more about Comp-U-Dopt and register for their lottery by visiting www.compudopt.org/houston. More information about February’s technology drive can be found on the Federation’s website and Facebook pages. For more information on social action opportunities, contact Federation Director of Social Action Sacha Bodner at sbodner@houstonjewish.org.