Inver receives first ‘Laptops for Larne’ donation

‘Laptops for Larne’ was launched last month by the Brighter Futures Fund supported by Larne Football Club which has teamed up with the Rusa Foundation.

The appeal aims to provide children in the Larne area with new and used laptops or tablets to help with their education.

The organisers say that the appeal will be a “great step in helping many children receive the best possible learning, build their confidence and improve their mental health by providing a way of communicating virtually with their peers”.

On Friday, the first donations of two new laptops were presented to Larne and Inver Primary School by Larne first team players, Conor McKendry and Luke Wade-Slater.

Principal Kirk Patterson said: “Larne and Inver is like a large family who help, support and encourage one another at all times.

“To receive these laptops fits perfectly with our ethos and we look forward to further supporting those in need. We would like to thank Larne Football Club for their kind donation.”

The organisers say that the ‘Laptops for Larne’ appeal recognises how the education of all children has been disrupted due to the current Covid-19 pandemic.

“Many children are suffering, as they do not have access to a laptop or technology due to financial issues.

“Through donations of equipment or cash, the initiative aims to provide many children in the Larne area with new and used laptops or tablets for educational purposes.

“The appeal will be a great step in helping many children receive the best possible learning, build their confidence and improve their mental health by providing a way of communicating virtually with their peers.”

Sandara Kelso-Robb, Brighter Futures strategic advisor, commented: “We are delighted that our appeal is going from strength to strength with donations of new and used equipment and much-needed cash to assist with refurbishment costs.

“These particular laptops were very kindly donated by Stephen Brown who has been doing such great work with Agents Together in similar initiatives throughout the UK and we are so grateful for the support of these partners.”

Meanwhile, donations of used equipment and cash for the purchase of printers, ink and paper and refurbishment of equipment are still being accepted.

Devices should be brought to Larne Football Club at Inver Park and cash can be donated through the Laptops for Larne Just Giving page.

Michelle Weir, Local Democracy Reporter

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Click here to read: Ten ‘desperately needed’ laptops donated to Larne school

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