About Us
Our Mission
Loaves, Fishes & Computers enables individuals to reach their full potential by providing low-cost computers and computer literacy classes to local low-income families, while providing volunteers the opportunity to learn and explore technology through their service to the community.
History of LFC
So, I started doing computer repairs for others as a hobby and soon realized that there were many usable computers that could — and should — be made available to those who needed them, but couldn’t afford them. As a result, Loaves, Fishes, & Computers, Inc. was born and that simple concept has become our mission: to provide technology that helps others help themselves.
Since 2009, LFC’s program has placed hundreds of computers into low-income households, where they have been used to further educational goals, assist with career advancement, or help a child study better and become more successful in his or her academic pursuits. Nothing feels better than that.”
- Christian Mendelsohn, Founder, Loaves, Fishes & Computers
LFC’s founder Christian Mendelsohn created LFC seeing a need to bridge the digital divide. Since the first day in his kitchen, LFC has served over 50,000 individuals with devices and opportunities to develop their digital skills.
“A neighbor gave me a broken computer he no longer wanted, but thought I could repair and use. I was able to fix the computer, and I gave it to a friend’s son who had no way to research and write school reports or do his homework.
It was great feeling - fixing the computer, giving it to someone and recycling a reusable computer.
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What is Digital Inclusion?
According to the National Digital Inclusion Alliance, Digital inclusion “refers to the activities necessary to ensure that all individuals and communities, including the most disadvantaged, have access to and use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs).” NDIA identifies five elements needed to achieve digital inclusion, which include affordable internet service, internet-enabled devices, digital literacy, technical support, and applications and online content that supports self-sufficiency and full participation. Learn more about the National Digital Alliance’s definitions by visiting their page here.
Why Digital Inclusion Matters
From job hunting to educational advancement, doctor’s appointments to banking, social service to housing applications, our world is increasingly digital. However, digital access is still not attainable to everyone, especially members of marginalized communities. The Pew Research Center states that the Hispanic/Latine population is more likely to have a smartphone as their primary Internet access device and less likely to have home broadband than their white and black counterparts, with 25% being smartphone-dependent. Similarly, those with incomes of less than $75,000 are likely to be more smartphone-dependent than those with higher incomes. Immigrant communities are also less likely to have digital skills. According to the Migrant Policy Issues, immigrants make up one-third of the workforce without digital skills.
LFC is dedicated to closing the digital divide by providing services that support digital equity and thereby a person’s ability to achieve economic self-reliance. Proper connectivity, access to quality devices, digital skills and workforce development opportunities are all critical services which LFC focuses and aims to provide to our communities. LFC’s three programs - Computer Distribution and Repair, Digital Literacy, and Volunteer & Tech Development, work to address the digital tech gap and create a more inclusive digital community. They provide the tools, resources, and experiential opportunities to support our underserved community members to navigate the ever-increasing digital landscape and access the tools they need.​