January 27, 2000 - Now there are better opportunities than ever for kids whose families can't afford a computer to own one. John Schmidt of Computers for Kids Canada announced today that additional support from Credit Union Electronic Transaction Services (CUETS), and membership in Microsoft's KidReach program is improving the quality of computers and software available for their program.

As the major sponsor of Computers for Kids, CUETS is now providing funding for basic operating costs, along with computer donations - CUETS recently donated 50 - and promotional assistance. John Schmidt stated, "The monetary support we receive from CUETS is helping us focus on our mission - getting computers into the hands of underprivileged kids - instead of the basics, like rent and office supplies. It means we can spend more money on extra computer parts and peripherals, like mice, for example. CUETS is also helping us get the word out to the community so that more kids can benefit from our program." Bob Lane, spokesperson for CUETS, said "Our goal is to help Computers for Kids help kids. As a company that works with technology every day, we understand the importance of computer literacy. You have to be able to use a computer in most jobs now, and when these kids grow up and start looking for work, it will be even more important. Helping kids become familiar with computers now will make a big difference to their future job opportunities."

Computers for Kids has also recently been accepted into Microsoft's KidReach program. This means that Computers for Kids now has access to a wide range of free software provided by Microsoft. It also means that kids who receive the computers will benefit from using more up-to-date software. According to Schmidt, this software will help them keep up with their classmates. "Some of the software we have received is almost brand new - so new in fact, that we're looking for computer donations with more memory to accommodate the software. That's great for the kids though, because the more up-to-date software we can give them, the better. If they can learn the basics of operating a computer - great! If they can learn to use the same software as their classmates, that's even better."

Computers for Kids is a registered charity that takes donations of used computers (386 or better), ensures that they are in good working order, and provides them to children who live in homes below the poverty level (as defined by Statistics Canada). How can the community help? The community can help Computers for Kids make a difference by donating used computers and peripherals, donating cash, or by donating their time as volunteers.

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