Derrick Brooks Charities, in partnership with AT&T and Compudopt, led two back-to-back laptop distributions this week, placing a combined 250 refurbished computers directly into the hands of Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast members (“club kids”) and their families across Escambia, Okaloosa and Walton counties.
At each site, 125 laptops, funded by an AT&T contribution, were distributed to preselected recipients through the local clubs. Eligible households receiving devices may also qualify for up to one year of AT&T Fiber at no cost through a philanthropic program administered by Compudopt.
“Tonight, you could see what opportunity looks like on a child’s face. For many of our club kids, this is the first laptop that’s truly theirs — not one borrowed from a school, library, or relative,” said Shervin Rassa, CEO of Boys & Girls Clubs of the Emerald Coast. “From the earliest grades through high school, a device at home is now essential to keep up with assignments, connect safely, and explore what’s possible. Thanks to Derrick Brooks Charities, AT&T, and Compudopt, we’re closing a gap we all saw so clearly during COVID and opening doors for families across the Emerald Coast.”
Event details
• Fort Walton Beach (Okaloosa County): Tuesday, Dec. 16, 4:30 p.m. CT — Emerald Coast Boys & Girls Club, 923 Denton Blvd. NW (125 laptops)
• Pensacola (Escambia County): Wednesday, Dec. 17, 4:30 p.m. CT — Boys & Girls Club of Escambia County, 2751 N. H St. (125 laptops).
The distributions addressed the digital divide, the ongoing gap in access to reliable internet service and connected devices, by prioritizing club kids and families from Escambia, Okaloosa, and Walton counties with the greatest need.
Part of a larger commitment
These Emerald Coast distributions align with AT&T’s broader efforts to expand internet accessibility, affordability, and safe adoption. This includes a $5 billion commitment to help 25 million people get and stay connected by 2030, as well as more than 4,000 computers distributed across Florida since 2021.
