Submitted by Andy Colley, Senior Director and Copywriter for Comcast NBCUniversal
Thirty new laptops will help people experiencing homelessness in Whatcom County build computer skills, prepare résumés, and search for employment.
Comcast recently donated the computers, valued at nearly $20,000, to Lighthouse Mission Ministries in Bellingham. Guests and program participants will use them to apply for jobs, complete online training, and gain confidence using workplace technology.
“Having access to a computer can open the door to new job and career opportunities,” said Alvin Helms, interim CEO of Lighthouse Mission Ministries. “These laptops will help our guests learn new skills, search for jobs, and take important steps toward employment and greater independence.”
The donation builds on a partnership between Comcast and Lighthouse Mission that began in 2021. That year, Comcast provided a mobile computer lab with laptops, a projector, and a printer.
Lighthouse Mission used the equipment to start a four-week résumé-building class. Participants practiced typing and document editing while researching job openings, exploring local job boards and creating résumés.
Comcast also helped establish a Lift Zone at Lighthouse Mission’s Base Camp emergency shelter, giving guests access to free Wi-Fi.
“Getting ready for work today means having access to technology and knowing how to use it with confidence,” said Vincent Buys, Comcast government and community affairs manager and a former Lighthouse Mission board member. “We’re proud to continue working together and put more technology directly into the hands of people building a path toward employment and greater independence.”
The computers will complement Lighthouse Mission’s shelter and recovery programs, workforce training, professional development, case management, and other services for people working toward stability.
Founded in 1923, Lighthouse Mission Ministries operates a 24-hour emergency shelter in Bellingham along with residential recovery and workforce-development programs. More information is available here.
The donation is part of Project UP, Comcast’s $1 billion initiative supporting access to internet connectivity, technology, digital training, and economic opportunities through community organizations.
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