Written by Matilda Scholl
KC Digital Drive is partnering with Donnelly College to distribute free laptops to students in need. Leah Henriksen, the state digital inclusion coordinator for KC Digital Drive, highlighted the importance of the initiative.
“Our goal is to bridge the digital divide for students in need,” Henriksen said. “With approximately 15 distribution centers in the Kansas City metro area, Donnelly College was the perfect addition to our list of partnerships.”
In the first week alone, more than 20 Donnelly students registered to receive a laptop to support their academic needs.
To qualify, students must be Kansas residents currently enrolled at Donnelly College and must not personally own a computer. They must also be eligible for the Pell Grant or have a household income at or below 200% of the federal poverty level.
Carol Doms, Donnelly College’s academic librarian, shared her enthusiasm for the program.
“When Leah approached me about this opportunity, I was eager for Donnelly to partner with her organization to support our eligible Kansas students,” Doms said.
In addition to providing free laptops, Henriksen and Doms are hosting workshops for qualifying Donnelly students to help them make the most of their new HP devices for academic success.
“Within the first day, I had multiple students tell me how thankful they were because they had never owned a computer,” Henriksen said.
“This program is perfect for Donnelly,” Doms added.
By combining access to essential technology with hands-on support, KC Digital Drive and Donnelly College are helping students build the digital skills they need to thrive. The partnership not only supports academic success but also strengthens long-term opportunities for students who may otherwise face barriers to digital access.