Regina Sun Community News
January 7, 2001

Article by Paul Roberton

John Schmidt, president of Computers for Kids, is trying to make sure that being in a low-income family doesn't stop kids from having their own computer. It's vital that all kids, not just those with well-off parents, learn to use a computer, Schmidt says.

He started the organization in 1995. He started off slowly, and has had to move several times as the operation grew. Now Computers for Kids is at 1111 Rose St. (924-0236) which is bigger, although after being in the building for two years, it also is getting crowded.

Schmidt said that in this computer age, many people are throwing out their old computers as they get new ones. Also, he said, there are many kids whose parents have very little income and are living below the poverty line.

"Why not," he asked, "put those (discarded) computers into the hands of the children?"

Schmidt has had a varied career, including working at Pioneer Life, selling real estate and selling health food.

He volunteers at Computers for Kids, and has been its guiding force.

About two years ago, Computers for Kids became sponsored by Credit Union Electronic Transaction Services (CUETS) which is owned by Credit Union Centrals of Alberta and Saskatchewan. CUETS provides card issuing, and acquiring and processing services to its clients.

Leila Dueck, a communications Officer with CUETS, said there was a good tie-in.

"We're in the technological business. It's a perfect fit." Children need to learn to work on computers so they can compete when they're in the workforce.

"We're committed to our sponsorship and want to see it grow."

To qualify, the children must be between five and 18, be attending school, and be from a low-income family. They also want children to talk to their teacher about the computer. To make certain that the children (and families) are serious, and that the machines won't be abused, family or the kids must pay $50 for the machine.

"If a machine quits, bring it back and we will fix it if it had a surge protector."

The group doesn't just cover Regina. Computers for Kids has sent machines as far away as Prince Albert, and has opened a branch in Estevan.

"How do you keep a good thing down? You can't stop it." Schmidt says enthusiastically.

Schmidt says they concentrate on IBM compatible computers, 386s and up. They also need printers, monitors, keyboards, memory boards and cable parts. They are now starting to get the Pentium versions.

They also get support from the Canadian division of Microsoft. It donated $129,000 worth of software with a covering letter that said "if there's any time you run short, just let us know."

They can also use all the volunteers they can get to repair computers, answer the phone or lend a hand.

Schmidt says the kids don't need the most modern equipment to learn the basics. "If they learn how to run the keyboard, they can sit before any computer.

Schmidt says the Rose Street Building isn't big enough for the group to give classes in computer use. Right now the 12 volunteers fill the 1,500-square-foot area, repairing and reconditioning machines.

"They tear them apart," Schmidt says. Machines come in with parts missing, and if the group doesn't have parts on hand, they have to go out and buy some.

Schmidt says both business and individuals donate computers. The university, the government, private business and CUETS have donated computers and so have many individuals who, after buying a more powerful machine, give their old machine to Computers for Kids.

"The individual could probably sell that, but they bring it in and give it to the kids."

The group also needs a truck, Schmidt says, adding that it would make it a lot easier to pick up and deliver the computers.

Schmidt says the parents really appreciate what the group is doing for the kids. "I've had mothers cry on my shoulder, thanking me."

One mother told him a computer has completely changed her daughter at school and at home.

Before, she was shy, and wouldn't go to the computer at school. Now, she has more confidence and she also knows what she is doing with the computer.

"Now she has a new circle of friends," her mother told Schmidt. Her marks have gone from the 50s to the 80s.

"That's really what we're trying to do," Schmidt says.

He said they try to serve all who apply, but sometimes there is a waiting list, "but we try to serve people as they come through the door."

Computers for Kids is open Mondays to Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. but they can be contacted by phone on Fridays and Saturdays.