250 military kids get free computers as school nears

By: Caitlin Cissne, News 14 Carolina, 8/15/09

FORT BRAGG – More than 250 military children received free computers this weekend at Fort Bragg in an effort to close the digital divide.

"We're receiving a free computer, so I'm pretty excited about getting a computer for my kids,” said parent, Shakeisha Pearsall. “Especially with school starting, it's going to help out a whole lot."

Pearsall’s daughter was chosen to receive a free computer on Saturday. The family had been without one for a few months after their computer broke, leaving the girl at a disadvantage in class.

"I have to go to the library and I don't get much time on the computer,” she said.

It’s problems like that which inspired 19-year-old Ned Dibner to form the Kramden Institute six years ago with his father. Since then, 4,000 computers have been given out to students in need.

"This is like Christmas; this is phenomenal,” said Ned Dibner. “This is one of the best days of the year."

The more than 250 military kids getting free computers come from schools on Fort Bragg in Cumberland County and other neighboring counties.

"It's wonderful, because we know what's going to happen as soon as they can get on the internet or even just use it for their homework,” said Mark Dibner. “They're going to get a leg up that they didn't have before."

For the military families, the computers can also help them keep in touch with deployed parents.