Digital Access for Every Generation

From Courtside to Connected

During a clear February afternoon in Venice, something powerful happened on the beachside basketball courts—and it had nothing to do with the final score.

Jewish Family Service LA and other community partners joined AT&T and Human-I-T to distribute 50 refurbished laptops to Los Angeles’ older adult residents as part of a statewide effort to close the digital divide.

“In today’s world, a device isn’t a luxury. It’s how people participate in modern life,”

_{^{– Gabe Middleton, CEO of Human-I-T}}

But for many of the older adults served by JFSLA, the biggest win wasn’t on the court—it was in receiving a reliable device that opens the door to connection.

The event—which was held in advance of NBA All-Star Weekend—brought together technology, education, and a strong sense of community care. With support from NBA Cares, the afternoon featured a live NBA Math Hoops lesson and app-based competition developed by the nonprofit, Learn Fresh. The program is designed to help students strengthen algebra readiness while building critical life skills such as executive function and self-regulation.

Meanwhile, the AT&T Dunk Bus—an interactive, traveling fan experience—offered attendees the chance to test their skills with live dunks, face off in NBA2K, and meet NBA players Cedric Coward of the Memphis Grizzlies and Kobe Sanders of the Los Angeles Clippers.

Each laptop includes one year of free technical support, a one-year warranty, and one-on-one digital literacy assistance. These supports are especially important for older adults who may be navigating online healthcare portals, connecting with loved ones over video calls, or accessing essential services from home.

JFSLA distributed laptops across several of our multipurpose centers, including the BAR Center, Felicia Mahood Multipurpose Center, Jona Goldrich Multipurpose Center, and the West Hollywood Comprehensive Service Center. Members expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to stay connected in a world that increasingly requires digital access for daily life.

According to the Public Policy Institute of California, 41% of low-income households in the state still lack full digital access to both the internet and a device for educational or essential use. For older adults in particular, outdated or nonfunctional technology can create frustration, isolation, and barriers to care.

“In today’s world, a device isn’t a luxury. It’s how people participate in modern life,” said Gabe Middleton, CEO of Human-I-T.

Kimiko Kelly, JFSLA’s Director of Arts, Wellness, and Engagement, emphasized the broader impact of this initiative: “We are grateful to take part in this amazing program offered by AT&T, NBA Cares, S120 Foundation and Human-I-T that will offer older adults more opportunities to be connected online. The technical support provided ensures that older adults will receive the assistance they need to be able to use the devices to enhance their well-being.”

This effort is part of AT&T’s $5 billion commitment to help 25 million people get and stay connected to high-speed internet by 2030. Since 2021, more than 31,000 computers have been distributed to students and families across California.

For JFSLA, the impact is immediate and deeply personal. From telehealth appointments to virtual community programming—including our Arts, Wellness, and Engagement offerings—access to technology allows older adults to remain engaged, informed, and empowered.

Sometimes, closing the gap starts with something as simple as opening a laptop.