Community Corner

United Way Of West Alabama To Distribute 100 Free Laptops, School Supplies In Tuscaloosa

The distribution begins at 10 a.m. Thursday, July 30, in the United Way of West Alabama Boardroom

TUSCALOOSA, AL — One hundred West Alabama students and families will receive refurbished laptops and backpacks filled with school supplies Thursday through a partnership between United Way of West Alabama, AT&T and Compudopt.

Click here to subscribe to our free daily newsletter and breaking news alerts.

The distribution begins at 10 a.m. Thursday, July 30, in the United Way of West Alabama Boardroom at 2720 Gary Fitts St. in Tuscaloosa.

Find out what's happening in Tuscaloosafor free with the latest updates from Patch.

The Tuscaloosa giveaway is one of three events being held across Alabama, with similar distributions planned in Huntsville and Mobile.

Together, the organizations will provide 300 refurbished laptops and backpacks statewide through partnerships with local United Way organizations.

Find out what's happening in Tuscaloosafor free with the latest updates from Patch.

"Reliable access to technology has become essential for success in school, the workplace and everyday life," UWWA President and CEO Jackie Wuska said. "A laptop can help a student complete an assignment, allow a parent to apply for employment or connect a family with important community resources. We are grateful to AT&T and Compudopt for investing in West Alabama and helping local families gain access to tools that can create meaningful opportunities."

State Sen. Gerald Allen, a Republican from Tuscaloosa, said providing students with access to technology is an investment in Alabama's future.

"Access to technology is essential for students to keep up in today's classrooms and beyond," Allen said. "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 Alabama."

The event is part of a nationwide AT&T initiative in which employees are helping distribute 30,000 laptops to students in qualifying households during 2026.

"AT&T is proud to collaborate with the United Way to help support local students," said Cleo Washington, vice president of AT&T Alabama. "Connectivity is vital for students, and we're glad we can provide these resources to those who need them most."

Have a news tip or suggestion on how I can improve Tuscaloosa Patch? Maybe you're interested in having your business become one of the latest sponsors for Tuscaloosa Patch? Email all inquiries to me at ryan.phillips@patch.com.

Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.