Computer Literacy and Distribution Program
Reaches Milestone
More than 2,000 families are now enjoying in-home computer access thanks to the Chickasaw Nation Computer Literacy and Distribution program, which refurbishes and distributes excess tribal computers as well as computers donated by businesses and government agencies.
Implemented in February, 2002 to make computer equipment available to students, elders and others who may be unable to afford it, the program is providing a much needed service, according to Cliff Jones, director of the program.
"As far as I know, this is the largest program of its kind in the state, and maybe in all of Indian country," said Jones. "I think we're at the cutting edge of getting technology into the hands of people who need it. If you multiply that 2,000 by the two or three family members who commonly use a home computer, we have had a positive impact on 5 to 6,000 individuals."
While approximately 54 percent of Americans are on-line, it is estimated that only about nine percent of Native Americans can afford computers and only about eight percent are actively on the Internet.
Moreover, many Native Americans who are using the Internet are making use of facilities at school or community access centers to get on-line.
"Providing public Internet access is an important service that we have provided for a number of years," said Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby. "This program however, goes a step beyond that by providing computer equipment directly to individuals for use in their own home.
"This ready access to computers makes it much easier to become familiar with the equipment and develop the kinds of skills that can make a meaningful difference in the quality of life and lead to expanded employment opportunities."
Jones credits much of the success of the program to cooperation within the tribe. The Division of Commerce has made financial contributions and the Chickasaw Foundation has helped facilitate donations from outside entities, while the property and supply, maintenance and nutrition services divisions have all helped transport and deliver computer equipment.
Although most equipment is distributed in Oklahoma, computers have also been distributed to Chickasaw citizens as far away as the state of Washington.
Donations of equipment have come from as far as Nebraska, Iowa and Florida, and while donation of computer CPUs (central processing units), is currently keeping pace with demand, Jones says the program is now in need of computer monitors.
"People may go through several CPUs before they buy a new monitor, and monitors are a little more difficult to ship and store, so that is probably our greatest need right now," said Jones.
He also points out that any and all donations are needed to keep pace with applications. Figures for the current fiscal year show applications, at 117 per month, are still outpacing distributions, at 86.3 per month. Donations to the program not only benefit those who receive the equipment, they can also benefit the donor's bottom line.
Estimates of the costs associated with disposal, storage, handing down to other employees or selling used equipment range up to $400 per computer.
By donating to the program, companies can save time and disposal costs, and receive a tax deduction. Donation is also environmentally friendly, as reuse is preferable to disposal or even recycling of toxic materials contained in computer equipment.
Jones said used computer equipment can be picked up free of charge within the state of Oklahoma, and the program can often pay freight charges for out-of-state donations.
To donate equipment to the program, or for more information, call (580) 421-7876.
