MECKLENBURG COUNTY, N.C. — A local organization is working on closing the digital divide and sent 500 Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools students home with laptops Saturday.
Pat Millen's daughter gave him the idea to start E2D, Eliminate the Digital Divide, after seeing how many of his daughter's classmates struggled without a computer at home.
"The smile on their face is so real because they're going to be able to do homework they haven't been able to do before," said Millen.
Companies donate their used computers to E2D, and the organization refurbishes them with upgraded software and gives them to families for $75.
Saturday, Lowe's donated 500 laptops, which students were excited to get.
"I can practice some of my math because I'm having a hard time with that, and I can do some other school activities," said elementary student Caleb Mack.
Student-athlete Destiny Parker said she must have good grades to play sports but that it's difficult to balance practice and homework when she is always on the go.
"My school assigns a lot of projects, and I didn't have a working computer at home," said Parker.
Grandparent Oneita Williams, who came with her grandchildren, said without a computer at home, they were always rushing to the library after dinner to get homework done.
"The computers they provided them are invaluable, but we are so appreciative for them," said Williams.
The organization said it's always looking for companies willing to donate.
Find out more about how to donate here.
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