Family Technology Project

The Family Technology Project (FTP) brings computer literacy and ownership at no cost to very low-income families who have never before had a computer in their home. Supported by partners such as the California Emerging Technology Fund anf the City of LA Community Development Department, FTP targets families with students at Pacoima Charter Elementary School, Bert Corona Charter School, Harrison Elementary School, and Monsenor Oscar Romero Charter School.

The program offers a complete home computer system with broadband access upon graduation from a computer literacy program for parents. This training course, taught by a Los Angeles Unified School District instructor certified in adult education, seeks to break down the barriers that prevent low income families from using technology. More than 95% of families are eligible for the federal free and reduced price lunch program, a leading indicator of family poverty. The program links to other technology initiatives operated by YPI, such as YPI Public Computer Centers, which is opening and operating 80 computer centers with broadband internet access in low-income neighborhoods across Los Angeles.

Over 900 families have now completed the Family Technology Project and have complete computer systems in their home free of charge. Each system includes a Pentium IV computer with a 17” flat screen monitor, a printer, a Windows operating system, Microsoft Office software (including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook), and broadband Internet access. The Youth Policy Institute also provides technical support through its Technology Services department at no charge for families in the program.