Comcast Delivers Holiday Joy with 100 Brand-New Laptops to Students in Miami’s Overtown

Comcast’s Project UP Empowers Students and Families to Close the Digital Gap with 💻 New Laptops and Digital Literacy

Inside the Children’s Village, 12-year-old Ignacio sat patiently with an eager smile on his face. At home, the seventh grader shares a computer with his brother and father. He’d like one of his own to focus on his studies, learn more about the financial world, and dream big – which is why this particular event was such a big deal.

Ignacio hopes the new device will help him pursue a career in business. His mother, Karla, beamed with pride as her son spoke about his future plans.

“It’s really helpful getting a computer,” Karla explained. “We need one for educational, school work.”

Why Digital Literacy Matters for Students

Ignacio, along with 99 other children, received a brand-new laptop during a festive event hosted by the Overtown Children & Youth Coalition. The laptops, donated by Comcast through its Project UP initiative, are more than gifts, said the coalition’s executive director, Anthony Robinson. They’re gateways to digital opportunity.

“This means a lot. Here in the Overtown community, half of the population does not have this technology in their house,” said Robinson. “This is going to be an opportunity for 100 individuals to get a piece of technology in their home so they can do their homework, compete for opportunities, and go for scholarships. We’re so thankful that Comcast was able to step in and provide these laptops to help shrink that digital divide that has affected this community for so long.”

Robinson said the Overtown Children & Youth Coalition first started serving the community in 2012 and has worked with thousands of children and their families over the years. He said the need is great, and being able to provide these life-changing devices during the holiday season is extra special.

Real Stories of How Laptops Change Lives in Miami’s Overtown

Ka’Den is 12 years old and also attended the event. He dreams of being a professional basketball player or firefighter one day. The seventh grader said the new laptop is much needed at his home.

“I will use the laptop for research,” Ka’Den said with a smile as his mother, Sharvae, looked on.

“I’m excited because I have two boys,” Sharvae said. “They’ll be able to actually do their work online at home … it gives them that extra boost.”

How Comcast’s Project UP Empowers Students with Digital Literacy

Comcast’s donation is part of the company’s Project UP, a $1 billion initiative to advance digital opportunity through programs like Internet Essentials, Lift Zones, and device donations.

“It’s imperative for this community. In today’s world, technology isn’t optional. It’s essential. From sending emails to completing homework and applying for jobs, digital skills are the foundation for success,” said Nicholas Alvarez, Comcast’s Government & Regulatory Affairs Director for Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties. “Providing these laptops gives students the tools they need to learn, grow, and pursue their dreams.”

Ignacio and Ka’Den both left the event with laptops in hand, big smiles and even bigger plans for the future.

Read more about Project UP’s impact throughout Florida by visiting Cape Coral Digital Skills Learners Graduate Goodwill Program with New Laptops and 75 Jacksonville Students Receive Brand-New Laptops.