Carmel Magazine-Spring 2022

LFC Executive Director Gabriela López Chávez with volunteers Kailah Combs, Yesica Aguilar and Marci Yeater. The nonprofit has served over 60,000 people since 2009. Photo: Kelli Uldall SHORT CUTS GIVING BACK W hen the pandemic kept families apart, moved classes online and prompted some to seek new jobs, digital tools bridged the gaps. Demand skyrocketed at Loaves, Fishes & 'omTYters 0*' the 7alinas nonTro½t that trains volunteers to repair donated computers and sup- plies refurbished systems to low-income clients. “During the height of the pandemic, we distributed over 2,500 free and low-cost com- puters,” says LFC Executive Director Gabriela López Chávez. 7ince the nonTro½t has serveH more than 60,000 people and diverted 120 tons of equip- ment Jrom lanH½lls 0*' also introHYceH HiKital literacy classes for adults and launched technology training programs for seniors. The organization also partners with Salinas City Elementary School (istrict to host FilinKYal HiKital flYenc] worOshoTs teaching families to safely navigate social media platforms and remote learning tools. “We provide the tools and skills that under- served communities need in an increasingly digital world,” López Chávez says. It costs the organization between $100 and to reJYrFish anH oYt½t a comTYter with a bilingual operating system and basic software, she estimates. That’s an investment in economic equity that changes lives. “Having digital tools and digital skills is no longer a luxury. Technology is something you need to participate in this economy,” López Chávez says. To learn more or to support Loaves, Fishes & Computers, visit www.loavesfishescomputers.org or call 831/393-9260. Salinas Nonprofit Delivers In-Demand Digital Tools B Y R ENE E B R I NCK S 90 C A R M E L M A G A Z I N E • S P R I N G 2 0 2 2