Apple to provide 18,000 computers to Louisiana groups, local governments

Technology company Apple is donating 18,000 computers to 11 Louisiana organizations and local governments to help people get jobs, Gov. Jeff Landry announced Tuesday morning. 

Landry joined Apple representatives, local officials and community members at the Hotel Bentley in Alexandria to announce the partnership. Apple, technology company SHI and Connect Louisiana, Louisiana’s lead office for efforts to expand broadband internet access across the state, will work together to provide the organizations computers and digital skills training. 

Landry said his administration’s economic development efforts have improved job prospects in the state, and people now need access to digital tools and training to get those jobs. He placed emphasis on providing the computers and training in rural areas and prioritized students, veterans, those with disabilities and adults seeking work.  

“We’re going to give them the devices necessary to be able to play in an economy that is working for Louisiana,” the governor said. 

The 11 recipients are:

• Bastion Veterans Wellness Center
• Franklin Parish
• Louisiana Community and Technical College System
• Pointe Coupee Parish
• Savoie Medical Center 
• Southeastern Louisiana University 
• Southern University
• Southern University in New Orleans, 
• Town of Saint Joseph 
• Town of White Castle 
• West Ascension Parish Hospital

The organizations were selected because of the connection to their local communities which all have a “digital divide that needs to be closed,” Landry said. 

“We’re giving people out there who want an opportunity the tools that are necessary for them to reach that opportunity and to put that money in their pocket,” he added.