KITIKMEOT
A former Cambridge Bay resident, who is a volunteer with Computer for Schools in Yellowknife, dropped off 40 laptops and changed the lives of Kitikmeot Larga residents Aug. 6.

Computers for Schools donated 40 laptops to Larga Kitikmeot residents who were in Yellowknife for medical treatment Aug. 6. Computers for Schools volunteer Sudhir Jha, left, with a few of the residents returning home with laptops including Amber Mingilgak, left, Gordie Porter, with young Stephen Kununak, Vera Kaomayok, Myste Mamingoak, Jean Kaiyogana, Helen Kaloon, Millie Avaligak, Sam Avaligak and Alexandra Klengenberg in front. - photo courtesy of Sudhir Jha

Sudhir Jha thought the Larga residence in Yellowknife, which sees many people from the Kitikmeot pass through its door while receiving medical treatment in Yellowknife, would be the ideal way to pass on recycled computers.

"I thought it was a good idea to give computers to the people," said Jha, who approached Larga Kitikmeot manager Casey Adlem about his interest in providing laptops to people who might not normally be able to own one.

Jha had tried contacting several people to help distribute the computers.

"I knew through Larga I could reach Cambridge Bay, Gjoa Haven, Kugluktuk, Kugaaruk and Taloyoak people," said Jha.

Adlem replied immediately.

"I responded quickly because I know there are people in the Kitikmeot who don't have ways to stay in communication with family and friends who don't live in their own community," said Adlem. "And many people may not even have a telephone. So if they have a way that they can communicate with others, it's good for everybody."

Jha says people were "super-happy," and Adlem echoes that sentiment.

"I think some people were so happy, they almost cried. A lot of them have never owned a computer before. They were so overwhelmed, and just so grateful."

Adlem says people in the Kitikmeot are generally grateful for small things.

"So this, for some of them, was life-changing. You could feel the spirits just lifting in the whole building."

A few recipients, elders who have never owned a computer, are looking forward to learning how to use one.

"The younger generation ... most have access to computers through school or through work, and know how to use them. The elders I was speaking to said their son or daughter was going to show them how to get on there. Some of them are talking about maybe even making a Facebook account. They laugh, and they're excited about it."

Adlem says it's also been great for staff to be involved, and that such a generous gift is good for the health.

"We're just so grateful for that opportunity. I think any time people have something happen in their life it affects them in a positive way. Someone mentioned, 'It's nice that we're not always forgotten.'"

"These computers will increase their awareness of the technology and learn how to use computer skills in their everyday lives," said Jha. "Even the next day after the distribution I went to the Larga boarding home to check with people to make sure they are comfortable with their own computer laptops."

Jha had 60 laptops and 40 residents. He's decided to collect another 20 in order to provide a second set of Larga residents with their own laptops.

Furthermore, he says if there are people in the communities who might want a computer of their own, they can contact Computers for Schools of the Northwest Territories and Nunavut. Desktop computers are also available.

Adlem hopes the new relationship between Larga Kitikmeot and Computer for Schools continues.

"What they do is amazing. For some people, it is life changing."

Jha is equally grateful for the opportunity to distribute the computers.

"I am also super-happy," he said.

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