Distributions are part of the employee efforts to help bridge the digital divide and equip 30,000 students nationwide with supplies.
MONROE, August 5, 2026
AT&T and Human IT, in collaboration with United Way of Northeast Louisiana, provided 50 refurbished laptops and 75 backpacks stuffed with school supplies to distribute to local students and families in need.
"Access to technology opens doors," said Kim Lowery, President & CEO, United Way of Northeast Louisiana. "Whether it's a student completing homework, a parent applying for a job, or a family connecting to essential services, having a reliable computer can make a meaningful difference. We're proud to work alongside organizations that are helping more people gain the tools they need to learn, work, and thrive."
"Access to technology is essential for students to keep up in today's classrooms and beyond," said State Representative Adrian Fisher. "Efforts like this laptop and school supply distribution give kids in our community the tools they need to learn, grow, and thrive. It's an investment not just in education, but in the future of Louisiana."
"As families prepare for a new school year, having the right tools can make all the difference," said State Representative Pat Moore. "This investment will help students walk into the classroom ready to learn and give them resources they can continue using long after the first day of school."
This event is part of a broader AT&T employee effort to help bridge the digital divide and distribute 30,000 laptops to students in qualifying households.
"AT&T is proud to collaborate with United Way to help support local students," said Matt Adams, Director, External & Legislative Affairs, AT&T Louisiana. "Connectivity is vital for students, and we're glad we can provide these resources to those who need them most."
According to U.S. Census Bureau data, millions nationwide still don't have access to the internet or connected devices needed to fully participate in the online world, an issue known as the digital divide. Additionally, many who do have access lack the digital skills to take advantage of the economic, health, education, and social opportunities it provides. By combining device access with hands-on training, AT&T and its partners aim to address both barriers at once.
This effort is part of AT&T's initiative to help address the digital divide through internet accessibility, affordability and safe adoption. Since 2021, AT&T has committed $5 billion dollars to help 25 million people get and stay connected to high-speed internet by 2030, including distributing 30,000 laptops nationwide in 2026.