Thank you for supporting this very important effort.
The PCs for MAINE personal computer access and literacy program provides personal computers with free technical support and training to individuals and families throughout Maine who need technology for academic, personal enrichment or employment objectives.
Throughout all the communities we serve, Federal and State programs sponsor approximately 300 PCs for MAINE program individuals and families each year. Another 200 applicants apply each year that do not qualify for assistance from these programs because they:
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Are employed - if not gainfully or consistently;
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Do not have a certified disability;
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Do not fit these other programs' requirements such as race, age, sex or geography;
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Earn more than these programs allow, which is often based on Federal Poverty Levels - example: Family of 4 earning more than $22,050.00 per year;
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Refuse to accept 'hand outs' from the government (reasons of pride, independence).
These are the families we want to help the most. They also have the highest levels of engagement and the best outcomes in the program.
We do very well in reducing the cost of participation in the program (thanks to grants, volunteers, technology donors and proceeds generated by PC MEDIX, our retail computer services division), but many of these families will still not be able to participate without help from a sponsor.
PCs for MAINE Participant Demographics ordered most common to least:
Single 29 year old mothers holding 2 jobs supporting at least two school-age children earning under $19,000.00/year
Objectives are returning to school to develop marketable career skills and more gainful employment (often intend to take most classes at home after work via the Internet);
Youth/Young Adults with college aspirations and low incomes - we call shoe-string collegiates. Whereas computer/Internet access is now a pre-requisite for anyone to enroll in college, many would-be students are struggling with tuition, board and books - let alone the cost of a personal computer. Most of these applicants are only the second - and often the first generation in their family to enroll in a 4 year degree program, and are the cycle-breakers in under-educated families;
Displaced workers and traditional industry ex-patriots - ages range from 40 to 60 years of age. People in this area have been job hunting for the last 2-3 years, held long-term non technical careers that paid well until their employers (typically manufacturing or agri-business) had major lay-offs or closed the business altogether. Objectives are to develop technology skills so as to be more marketable to employers, online job hunting, resume creation and occasionally entrepreneurial interests;
Young low income families who want to enhance their elementary age childrens' education - The outcomes studies we've performed on these families always lead to a great deal of unforeseen collateral benefits. Intended to help their kids engage in online learning programs and enhanced learning - the parents themselves often develop excellent skills that lead to marketable job skills, further education...
Seasoned Workforce - More and more people who have been good savers all their lives have watched their retirement security evaporate in the last 4 years and have had to forestall retirement plans, or come out of retirement and get jobs. Most of these folks missed the technology age entirely in school and need to develop their job skills - even use computers as an alternative low cost communications tool to save money. Our outcomes studies have shown some surprising results within this community, where technology enabled many to start their own business or get into service industries that are better suited to an older person because of the focus on mind over body.
If you can sponsor a PCs for MAINE family, please use the form below to let us know.
ITE is a 501(C)3 Non Profit Organization, and financial gifts can be tax deductible - ask your accountant or tax preparer to learn more.
