By Joe Veyera
The Ballard NW Senior Center (5429 32nd Ave NW) is one of 23 organizations to split $320,000 in technology matching funds from the City of Seattle, as the city looks to support projects throughout Seattle to ensure residents have access to and proficiency using internet-based technologies.
“While access to technology has increased for many, there is still a significant gap in the access to and use of technology in Seattle,” said Seattle Mayor Ed Murray in a press release. “Technology skills are necessary for success in the 21st century and these funds play a critical role in preparing our residents.”
The center will use the funds — $6,580 — to upgrade its existing eight-station computer lab, and provide computer instruction to seniors in Northwest Seattle. According to a post on its Facebook page, the center has interviewed two new computer teachers this week, bringing their total number of teachers to six.
The projects were selected by the city’s Technology Advisory Board from more than 67 applicants.
“These funds play an important role in leveling the playing field. They help our must vulnerable residents use technology in innovative and meaningful ways, including seniors, at risk youth, homeless women and children, immigrants and refugees, and people with disabilities,” said Councilmember Bruce Harrell, chair of the Public Safety, Civil Rights and Technology Committee in a release.
For more information on the technology matching funds program, and to see the full list of awardees, click here.
(Photo courtesy of the City of Seattle)
Gee that’s great, too bad they won’t maintain the building properly. The bathrooms are atrocious and not very accessible and the windows are single paned wasting tons of energy every winter. Seems silly to have fancy machines without the basics seen to. Shame on the City for such short sightedness overall.