Human-I-T

The number one barrier to owning technology is the associated cost (Pew Research Center, 2016). In effect, poverty limits access to the very tools that empower people to create a better life for themselves, their families, and their communities.

That is why Human-I-T works deeply within its hometown of Long Beach, especially in areas of concentrated poverty. 100% of the people that Human-I-T serves are qualified as low-income. Household income levels and enrollment in certain government assistance programs (including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, Supplemental Security Income, and Medicare) are used as indicators of low-income status. Individuals that make 250% of the federal poverty level threshold qualify for services. Human-I-T serves a number of low-income populations throughout the region, including veterans, persons with disabilities, students, and single mothers.

Human-I-T provides digital navigation services to a number of populations and institutions: veterans, persons with disabilities, homeless shelters, LGBTQ+ community centers, and other certified nonprofits. A majority of recipients are families with school-aged children in the home. Human-I-T believes that early-stage implementation of technology plants the seeds for lifelong technical skills. Research has shown that the digital divide disproportionately affects communities of color. To address this, over 80% of recipients are students and families of color.

Human-I-T's digital navigation services represent a comprehensive approach to addressing the digital divide. We provide low-income households with computers, assistance in signing up for no- or low-cost internet plans, digital literacy training, and technical support services. Armed with all four elements of digital connectivity, as well as Human-I-T's other resources and supportive services such as warranty coverage included with each computer we distribute, our recipients are able to pursue their own goals and passions in the Digital Age.

Testimonials

"My name is Shura. I had the privilege to get a laptop from your organization last week. I am extremely grateful for this precious investment in my future. I came… from Ukraine 2 months ago. The war in my native country made me flee... I also got a chance to get a course in programming for free from another organization... Now I will be able to pass it on to your laptop. That is the way how your actions can change things, make the lives of others easier and give hope to those who face hardship."
- Shura Ragimova, laptop recipient

"I am a mom of 4, and I work for the state in helping with foster care. I work remotely a few days of the week, and my laptop will save me so much time since I won't have to travel to the library anymore"
- Sheronda Clark, laptop recipient