Comp-U-Dopt Gives 500 Computers for Families Impacted by Hurricane Harvey in Port Arthur

HOUSTON, April 25, 2018 (Newswire.com) - On April 27, 2018, Comp-U-Dopt will distribute 500 refurbished computers to families impacted by Hurricane Harvey at DeQueen and Tyrrell Elementary Schools in Port Arthur Independent School District. This latest allocation brings the total distribution to 1,000 computers, signifying the completion to fulfilling Comp-U-Dopt’s pledge of 1,000 machines earmarked for Hurricane Harvey victims.  

Since its founding in 2007, Comp-U-Dopt has made a significant impact in the Houston area, distributing over 11,000 refurbished computers to underserved youth and their families. A partnership with Motiva Enterprises and support from Save the Children, has made it possible for Comp-U-Dopt to distribute these much-needed resources to families devastated by the storm.

Through our work in the shelters, we made connections with incredible organizations like Motiva Enterprises. With Motiva's generous offer of laptops, they have helped make it possible for us to continue to play a key role in rebuilding the lives of families affected by the storm in a very unique way. We are so grateful for the support of our corporate and philanthropic partners.

Megan Steckly, Executive Director

These donations are part of a larger effort to support the on-going regional relief initiative. Soon after Hurricane Harvey drove residents from their homes, Comp-U-Dopt set up 200 computers at seven stations at the George R. Brown and NRG Center shelters. More than 130 staff members and volunteers provided computer assistance at the centers, helping impacted persons complete FEMA applications, connect with loved ones, search for hotels and transport, and have a moment of normalcy. Comp-U-Dopt provided technical support in the shelters for three weeks until the shelters were closed.

“Although the shelters were closed, our community was far from recovered. Among the many components of a family’s recovery, we knew technology would be critical to helping people rebuild their lives,” said Megan Steckly, Executive Director of Comp-U-Dopt. “Through our work in the shelters, we made connections with incredible organizations like Motiva Enterprises. With Motiva’s generous offer of laptops, they have helped make it possible for us to continue to play a key role in rebuilding the lives of families affected by the storm in a very unique way. We are so grateful for the support of our corporate and philanthropic partners.”

Motiva Enterprises donated more than 2,500 computers to Comp-U-Dopt to be refurbished and distributed in the Greater Houston and Port Arthur areas to those impacted by Hurricane Harvey.

“Motiva is proud to participate in the on-going post-Harvey recovery and rebuilding efforts,” said Ed Haloulos, vice president of human resources for Motiva. “Our partnership with Comp-U-Dopt enables us to make a tangible difference in the lives of many families still on the long road to recovery in our community.”

Motiva Enterprises and Save the Children have also provided financial support to enable the ongoing distribution of computers and delivery of educational programs for community members in the Port Arthur area. In addition to a free, refurbished computer, each family will receive 90 minutes of technical training and two years of no-cost technical support from Comp-U-Dopt. 

Media photo/interview opportunity: Join Comp-U-Dopt and Motiva volunteers at 4:00 p.m. on Friday, April 27, 2018, at DeQueen Elementary School (740 Dequeen Blvd, Port Arthur, TX 77640). 

About Comp-U-Dopt

Comp-U-Dopt is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 2007 with a mission to provide technology access and education to underserved youth. Each year they serve 2,000+ young people from economically disadvantaged families across 9,600 square miles and more than 10 independent school districts providing computers and science, technology, engineering, arts and math education and training. www.compudopt.org

About Motiva

Headquartered in Houston, Texas, Motiva refines, distributes and markets petroleum products throughout the United States. Motiva owns and operates North America’s largest refinery in Port Arthur, Texas with a crude capacity of more than 600,000 barrels a day. The company also operates the country’s largest lubricant plant for both consumer and commercial use. Under exclusive, long-term brand licenses with Shell and Phillips 66 (for the 76^® Brand), Motiva’s marketing operations support more than 5,000 retail gasoline stations. Motiva is wholly-owned by affiliates of Saudi Aramco. www.motiva.com

About Save the Children

Save the Children believes every child deserves a future. In the United States and around the world, we give children a healthy start in life, the opportunity to learn and protection from harm. We do whatever it takes for children – every day and in times of crisis – transforming their lives and the future we share. Learn more about Save the Children’s Hurricane Harvey response and recovery work at www.SavetheChildren.org/Hurricane-Harvey.

Media contacts:

Megan Steckly
Comp-U-Dopt Executive Director
713-426-2330 x 1354
megan@compudopt.org

Source: Comp-U-Dopt