Computers for Kids

St. Peter’s Computers for Kids program installed our first computer with learning software on March 29th, 2001. As of August 16, 2011, we have provided a total of 91 computers to good causes. Sixty-five computers have gone to families in the Ellicott City/Columbia/Baltimore area who might not otherwise be able to afford Pentium IV computers. Eight have gone to the Route 1 Day Center. We also donated a computer to the Homework Club for elementary school children in the Hilltop community. Another computer was donated to the St. Peter’s After School Program. Eleven other computers were donated to various non-profit causes. Three computers went to a local Boy Scout troop so that they could tear apart some computers and see how they work. One computer went to the Baltimore International Seafarers’ Center in Baltimore. A special request was made by a parishioner of St. Peter’s and a computer was donated to help him in his work for the Diocese to maintain cemetery records at St. Mary’s Hampden. The Computers for Kids program also helps fix computers that are not working properly (whether or not they came from us).

Our goal is to even the playing field for low-income families in the technology area. With the learning software that is included with each computer, we fervently hope that the children will be able to not only learn new things but to realize the joy of acquiring knowledge. Also, most children in middle and high school are assumed to have a computer at home to finish their assignments. Without these computers, homework doesn't get done and children fall further behind their classmates. Computers also give children and families the capability to access the Internet, which provides boundless opportunities for homework research and learning possibilities.

A typical installation includes a computer with CD/ROM, computer desk, color printer, 56K modem, high-speed network connection, speakers, mouse, keyboard, ream of paper, and appropriate learning software (depending on the age of the children). If you are interested in making a donation or learning more about this program, please call Philip Shaw at 410-313-8915.