At Berkshire Farm Center, we are excited to share an important initiative that will have a profound impact on the lives of the youth in our care. We are requesting your support in helping us provide equitable access to technology, through the purchase of laptops, for children in our care, which can significantly impact their education, social connections, career prospects, and overall well-being. This need is unfunded by our current rates.
As you may know, our mission at Berkshire is to strengthen children and families to live safely, independently, and productively within their home communities. To achieve this mission, we are continually seeking ways to empower and educate the young individuals who rely on our services. In today's digital age, providing equitable access to technology for children in care is crucial for their growth and development.
The laptops we aim to provide will serve as powerful tools for these young minds, offering them a wide range of opportunities and resources including:
Digital Divide Impact: Children in care are more likely to face the "digital divide" - the gap between those who have access to modern information and communication technology and those who don't. You can help close the divide by giving youth access to technology to help them complete homework, research topics, or gain digital literacy skills that are crucial in today's world.
Connection and Support: Maintaining connections is crucial for the well-being of children in care. Technology can facilitate communication with friends, family, and support networks, mitigating feelings of isolation and enhancing emotional well-being.
Physical and Mental Well-being: Access to physical and mental health resources is critical for children in care. Technology would bring access to mindfulness exercises, workout routines, on-line yoga or other wellness benefits that are crucial in caring for those with trauma backgrounds.
Education Access: Only about 50-60% of youth in care graduate from high school, compared to 80% of the general population. Access to technology and the internet can provide vital educational resources, online tutoring, and opportunities for distance learning, potentially improving academic outcomes for these children.
Career Opportunities: A study found that only about half of young adults who aged out of foster care were employed by their mid-20s. Technology skills are increasingly essential in the job market. Providing access to technology can help children in our care develop skills necessary for a wide range of careers, enhancing their employment prospects.
To make this initiative a reality, we are seeking your generous support. Your donation will not only provide equitable access to technology but also empower our youth with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in life.
To donate, please visit here, where you can make a secure online contribution. Alternatively, you can send a check payable to Berkshire Farm Center using the enclosed envelope.
Thank you for your support of our mission to strengthen children and families. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of those in need.
Only about 50-60% of youth in care graduate from high school, compared to 80% of the general population. You can help us improve the graduation rates of children in care!
A study found that only about half of young people who aged out of foster care were employed by their mid-20s. Together, we can change that!