Alexandria, La. – At a ceremony in the historic Hotel Bentley, Governor Jeff Landry joined Apple representatives, local officials and community leaders to unveil a partnership that will place 18,000 new computers into the hands of Louisiana residents. The devices, supplied by Apple in collaboration with technology integrator SHI and Connect Louisiana, are paired with digital‑skills training designed to help people secure employment and thrive in a modern economy.
Targeted recipients address the state’s digital divide
The computers will be distributed to eleven recipients that serve a broad cross‑section of the state’s population, including veterans, students, people with disabilities and adults seeking work. The list includes the Bastion Veterans Wellness Center, Franklin Parish, the Louisiana Community and Technical College System, Pointe Coupee Parish, Savoie Medical Center, Southeastern Louisiana University, Southern University, Southern University at New Orleans, the towns of Saint Joseph and White Castle, and West Ascension Parish Hospital.
Governor Landry emphasized that the initiative focuses on rural areas where broadband access and technology resources have historically lagged. “We’re giving people out there who want an opportunity the tools that are necessary for them to reach that opportunity and to put that money in their pocket,” he said, underscoring the administration’s belief that digital access is a cornerstone of economic development.
Apple, SHI and Connect Louisiana coordinate training
Apple’s contribution goes beyond hardware. Together with SHI, a national technology solutions provider, and Connect Louisiana, the state’s lead office for expanding broadband, the partnership will deliver training programs that teach basic computer literacy, job‑search techniques, and specialized skills aligned with local employer needs. The training is intended to be accessible to both newcomers to the workforce and seasoned workers looking to upskill.
Connect Louisiana’s director noted that the program aligns with the state’s broader broadband‑expansion goals, helping to ensure that once the hardware reaches homes and classrooms, reliable internet connectivity will be available to support ongoing learning.
Economic impact and community response
Landry’s administration has highlighted job‑creation metrics in recent months, noting that new technology initiatives are a key driver of growth. By equipping residents with modern tools, the state hopes to attract businesses that require a digitally skilled workforce, thereby creating a virtuous cycle of employment and investment.
Local leaders expressed optimism. The mayor of Saint Joseph praised the donation as a “game‑changer” for the town’s youth, while the director of the Bastion Veterans Wellness Center said the computers will help veterans transition to civilian careers more smoothly.
Looking ahead
The partnership is slated to roll out over the next several months, with distribution plans coordinated by each recipient organization. Governor Landry indicated that the administration will monitor outcomes closely, measuring job placement rates and skill‑acquisition milestones to assess the program’s effectiveness.
Apple’s involvement reflects a growing trend of major technology firms partnering with state governments to address the digital divide, a move that aligns with both corporate social‑responsibility goals and the practical needs of communities seeking economic revitalization.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
