Vernon Officials, Business Taking Computer Donations For Kids

VERNON, CT — Four Vernon families that otherwise would be struggling with remote learning amid coronavirus closures now have computers through the combined efforts of town officials and a local business.

The computers were brought to Vernon's Youth Services Bureau last week to be donated to the families. The program is the brainchild of Vernon Town Council member Laura Bush, a teacher herself.

"I just wanted to make sure that families had what they needed in these difficult times," Bush said.

Bush said she came up with the idea when she saw someone on social media wishing he hadn't given his old computers to a charity instead of to a friend for their kids who were distance learning.

"As a teacher, I understand the importance of technology for students learning at home," she said.

Bush said she reached out to a friend of her son, Chris MacCoy of MacCoy Technology, to help get the idea off the ground. She then contacted Michelle Hill at the Vernon Youth Services Bureau to see if there was a need.

They identified several families that could use the computers. MacCoy reached out to people in the community by sharing a plea on social media. He and Bush were able to find four computers, which MacCoy prepared for the students.

"It warmed my heart to be able to help the Vernon families get through this health crisis," Bush said.

Bush said she has identified two more computers and is looking for more laptops with video cameras to refurbish.

MacCoy is taking donations through MacCoyTechnology.com.