NYCHA Launches Fourth Digital Van
More NYCHA residents will be able to access technology essential to making the connections they need, thanks to the rollout of a fourth Digital Van. This means more job searches and applications filled out, resumés updated, annual certifications filled out online, and more.
Launched in 2012, NYCHA’s Digital Vans are free computer labs on wheels that bring technology directly to NYCHA communities that have limited or no access to high-speed internet service. Each van has eight laptops, a printer/scanner, and wireless internet, as well as a knowledgeable on-site instructor who provides assistance as needed.
“With the addition of a fourth vehicle, the Digital Vans will be able to reach more underserved New Yorkers and address the internet disparities that exist in many neighborhoods,” said Harriet Granderson, Manager of the Digital Van initiative.
In 2019, the vans brought internet access and laptop computers to 5,900 New Yorkers. Senior citizens visited the vans to learn how to use computers, open e-mail accounts, and use online NYCHA services; school children did research for their homework; and teens and young adults came to submit summer job applications, apply to colleges, and access social media.
“The vans are here to help,” said Jose DelRosario, the newest Digital Van Driver/Instructor, who helms the fourth van. “They are a good service to the residents and I enjoy doing something positive for them, helping them with recertifications and filling out applications for job fairs, looking at sample resumés online to help them update theirs.”
In addition, NYCHA’s Digital Vans often partner with organizations at events to bring vital services and information to communities throughout the city. Some of the van’s partners include the Mayor’s Office of Criminal Justice, the Social Security Administration, the New York City Department of Education, Harlem Health Advocacy Partners, and 125 Street Harlem BID.
“We’re pleased to introduce a fourth Digital Van to support a larger number of residents and provide them with internet service,” said John Saggese, NYCHA’s Vice President for Enterprise Technology Portfolio Management. “Through the Digital Vans we’ve been able to help increase residents’ digital literacy and help them make connections to jobs, education, and more, simply by bringing computers and internet to their developments.”
The Digital Vans are part of a group of IT initiatives – including MyNYCHA, the NYCHA Self-Service Portal, and self-service kiosks – geared toward expanding resident services and improving the quality of life of residents through the use of technology.
View the full schedule Digital Van schedule here: http://on.nyc.gov/digitalvan.