Sunday, January 11, 2009

Weekly Charity: One Laptop Per Child


We're starting to see news articles about charities having to cut back due to the recession -- most recently it's been the One Laptop Per Child program, which, according to The Associated Press, has cut its staff in half.

The program is a good one, and deserves support. One Laptop Per Child provides low-cost, rugged laptop computers to children around the world who need them most. This gives kids in poor nations an opportunity to learn technology skills and link up with the broader world.

Right now, a laptop costs $199, though the group hopes to lower that to $100 in time. Thankfully, you can help by donating less that $199; perhaps if enough people donate $5 this week by clicking here, we'll have funded one more laptop that can bring one more child into a brighter future.

So check 'em out and give!

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

That's very nice...

Anonymous said...

This is a shame to hear. Obviously the economic downtown has been detrimental for corporations and small businesses, and those effects have been largely publicized. However, it wasn't until reading your post that I've really considered the effects on charities and nonprofits. Clearly, an organization that depends on monetary generosity or manpower would probably greatly suffer in tough economic times. It's great that you've not only brought up this issue but cited a specific charity facing it, along with how to help. I think many aspects of your post tie in with what I posted yesterday on the charity blog I just started. I highlighted a charity, Modestneeds.org, which allows donors to allocate money for requests from low-income families trying to stay afloat in light of the tough economic conditions. Also, just as the laptop charity you discussed allows for smaller donations than the total amount needed, Modest Needs allows you to contribute whatever amount you are able to and they will combine it with other donations.