Tech Centres for Transitional Housing

TUESDAY 16 JULY, 2024: PORT OF SPAIN, TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO – The Digicel Foundation and the Trinidad & Tobago Association of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints have completed the installation of technology centres at ITNAC’s Bethel House and Tabitha’s Home for Women and Children in Tobago. Both facilities provide temporary housing for women and children in need of emergency shelter, and the new technology centres will ensure access to digital services and opportunities as residents build a better future for themselves and their families.

“Transitional homes are a necessary and critical part of the rehabilitation and reintegration for vulnerable women,” noted the Digicel Foundation’s Head of Operations Cindyann Currency. “Including technology in these spaces is key to ensuring that, while in transit, these families are not left behind.”

On July 8 and July 11, Diane and Kory Sellers of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints had the opportunity to tour the two project sites. After minor refurbishments, each technology centre has been outfitted with 3 - 4 computers, 2 tablets, desks, chairs, AC units, and 1 year of free high-speed interest courtesy of Digicel+.

The project began earlier this year when the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints donated TT$607,500 (US$90,000) to the Digicel Foundation as part of its HER (Help Empower Reinvent) initiative for vulnerable women and youth. With further investment from the Digicel Foundation, this partnership will channel TT$875,000 in funding towards shelters that support women and children.

Now that the first phase is complete, the partnership will focus on building a Social Outreach Centre in East Port of Spain for ITNAC to extend its services to marginalised persons from the community.  Tabitha’s Home can also look forward to an expansion, with the completion of three self-contained rooms at its transitional home in Tobago.