An annual holiday drive to collect laptops for Alaska youths in foster care or who recently exited is underway. State Rep. Les Gara, D-Anchorage, and Amanda Metivier, founder of the Facing Foster Care in Alaska organization, are leading the effort. Both grew up in foster care.
Organizers are asking for new laptops or workbook computers such as Chrome Books, as well as donations they can use to buy computers. They no longer accept used computers.
Since the effort began in 2010, about 1,000 laptops and workbooks have been collected. But more than 3,000 children and teens are in Alaska foster care. Some have gone to University of Alaska Anchorage students, who say they are essential.
To donate, contact Metivier at info@ffcalaska.org or Gara at 907-269-0106 and rep.les.gara@akleg.gov.