Local Teens Raise Thousands To Give Internet Service To Low-Income Families

The global coronavirus pandemic is shining a light on a digital divide in the state.

When schools began closing down, it made it very apparent that some families didn't have the resources necessary for students to complete online assignments.

After hearing about this, three Glendale teens started raising money to make a difference.

Neha Balamurugan, an 18-year-old from Glendale, told AZ Family, "That is something we wanted to fight against, in making education more equitable."

Balamurugan started the fundraiser with classmates Lauren Aoyama, age 17, and Tony Ruan, age 17.

Their goal was to help families in need in the Alhambra Elementary School District, where they saw the greatest need.

Balamurugan said, "We learned that about 94% of the students from Alhambra Elementary School District qualified for free or reduced lunch."

The three teens announced on Monday that they met their fundraising goal of $20,000. According to Ruan, they are now providing 250 Alhambra families with internet through the end of the year.

Aoyama said, "I think it feels really rewarding and really great to know that we helped some access their education."

The three plan to continue fundraising to help out even more families.

To make a donation, click here.

Photo: Getty Images

Source: AZ Family