DNHS Students Distribute Laptops to Afghan Refugees at IRC El Cajon
Earlier this year, students from Del Norte High School’s Technology Relief Initiative (TRI) carried out another impactful donation event at the International Rescue Committee (IRC) in El Cajon. Through months of preparation, technical work, and collaboration, TRI successfully distributed laptops and Chromebooks to Afghan refugees newly resettled in the San Diego area.
This event represents a continued commitment to the belief that technology is a vital resource that opens doors to education, employment, and opportunity. It also highlights the strength of a partnership between TRI and IRC that has grown steadily over time, built on a shared mission to empower refugee families through access to digital tools, slowly closing the digital divide.
Empowering Through Digital Connection
Each device distributed during the event served as more than a piece of hardware. With the support of student volunteers and interpreters, refugee families received hands-on help with device setup and usage, ensuring they could begin using their new laptops immediately. These tools are intended to support English language learning, job searching, virtual appointments, and more.
For many recipients, this marked their first experience with personal technology in the United States. The ability to engage with online platforms provided an essential step forward in navigating a new life, connecting with family abroad, and building independence.
TRI's Ongoing Mission to Uplift
This most recent distribution reaffirmed TRI’s core mission: to use technical skill and service to deliver real-world impact. TRI students refurbished and prepared each laptop themselves, drawing on their growing expertise in device repair and digital literacy. Their efforts reflect a deep sense of community, ensuring that no family is left behind in the digital age.
As with past events, this effort was not only about the technology, but about trust, dignity, and empowerment. By providing personalized support and culturally responsive engagement, TRI volunteers helped create a welcoming environment where families felt seen and supported.
A Sustained Commitment to Equity
The roots of this initiative stretch back to the pandemic. Since then, TRI has been working with IRC to identify ways to address digital access among refugees. Now, the collaboration has grown, resulting in multiple donation events and continued outreach.
In an era where connectivity is closely tied to opportunity, these devices have become bridges to education, communication, and employment. All of which are critical steps toward self-sufficiency and stability.
Looking Ahead
As the Technology Relief Initiative reflects on this milestone, it extends its gratitude to the International Rescue Committee for its continued partnership and leadership. Together, TRI and IRC have demonstrated the lasting impact that comes when youth-led innovation meets community-based service.
Looking forward, TRI remains committed to expanding its reach, increasing its capacity to repair and distribute devices, and identifying new communities in need of support. Each device delivered represents a step toward closing the digital divide and lighting the way for a brighter future.
To learn more about the Technology Relief Initiative and how you can contribute, visit www.technologyrelief.org or contact the team at [email protected]. Together, we can build a more connected, equitable world. One device at a time.