Computers & Access Reaching Everyone (CARE)

Ten years and 918 computers later, a program charged with narrowing the Digital Divide for families in West Michigan ended on June 14, 2012. 

“It is obvious the CARE (Computers and Access Reaching Everyone) program served a real purpose during the last decade,” MacMedia Executive Director Barb Pyle said today. “Our records show we worked with 136 West Michigan agencies to provide 918 refurbished computers to families in the greater Holland and Zeeland area.”

 CARE highlights 
—The successful venture was jump started with a $29,500 grant from the Ameritech/SBC Foundation and computer donations from area businesses and individuals.

—On November 26, 2001, CARE presented the first refurbished computer to a mother and her two teenage daughters in Holland. 

—When CARE began, MacMedia oversaw MacNet, a low-cost, community–based internet service that proved to be within reach financially for many of the families receiving the refurbished computers. Macnet is no longer in service.

—For years, Rolland Swank and Rich Cook, two dedicated volunteers with exceptional computer experience, repaired donated computers for CARE and equipped each with Windows software, a legal license from Microsoft and a version of Microsoft Works. Thanks.

WE ALSO EXTEND OUR THANKS TO THE INDIVIDUALS, AGENCIES, AND ORGANIZATIONS THAT MADE THE CARE PROGRAM A SUCCESS! — MACMEDIA OF HOLLAND