SALINAS VALLEY — AT&T, Monterey Peninsula Foundation and Human-I-T have provided Salinas Community Science Workshop (SCSW) more than 250 refurbished laptops to distribute to Monterey County residents in need.
The computers, funded by AT&T’s $220,000 donation from the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am’s Birdies for Students program, were given to SCSW students and families during a distribution event on Feb. 28 at Hartnell College’s Alisal Campus in Salinas.
“Access to technology is access to opportunity. At Salinas Community Science Workshop, we see firsthand how closing the digital divide transforms a student’s confidence, creativity and academic success,” said Isaura Arreguin, executive director of SCSW. “This laptop distribution is more than providing devices — it’s investing in the potential of our youth and ensuring families in our community have the tools they need to thrive.”
Nancy Enterline, vice president of philanthropy for Monterey Peninsula Foundation, said the organization is “proud to partner with AT&T to uplift and connect students to possibility through funds raised through the Birdies for Students program.”
“This year, we’re thrilled to leverage the success of our golf tournament to distribute over 250 laptops to students in the Salinas area,” Enterline added.
According to U.S. Census Bureau data, millions nationwide still don’t have access to the internet or connected devices needed to fully participate in the online world, an issue known as the digital divide.
This effort is part of AT&T’s initiative to help address the digital divide through internet accessibility, affordability and safe adoption. AT&T has committed $5 billion to help 25 million people get and stay connected to high-speed internet by 2030. This includes distributing more than 31,000 computers to students and their families across California since 2021.
“AT&T is proud to collaborate with organizations like Human-I-T to help close the digital equity gap in Monterey County,” said Bettye Saxon, external affairs manager for AT&T California. “Access to connectivity is vital in helping to bridge the digital divide and we are glad we can provide these resources to those that need them most.”
In addition to the donated laptops, AT&T — through the Monterey Peninsula Foundation — is also donating remaining proceeds from the Birdies for Students program to the following organizations:
- Boys & Girls Clubs of Monterey County and the Seaside Clubhouse – $30,000
- City of Gonzales / Gonzales Community Center – $30,000
- Loaves, Fishes & Computers – $20,000
- Rancho Cielo – $20,000
- Salinas Community Science Workshop – $20,000
“A computer at home changes what’s possible for a family. Kids can do homework, parents can apply for jobs, and everyone gets a real shot at keeping up in a world that’s moved online,” said Gabe Middleton, CEO of Human‑I‑T. “Through the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am’s giving efforts, we’re in Salinas putting 254 laptops directly into the hands of families and students who need them. We’re grateful to AT&T, the Monterey Peninsula Foundation and the Salinas Community Science Workshop for making this happen.”
