News Release for Immediate Release
Bremerton, Wash. – The Bremerton Central Lions Charitable Foundation recently donated 20 new laptop computers at an estimated value of $7,100 to the
Olympic College Foundation, providing a valuable resource for students enrolled in the college's Basic Food Employment and Training (BFET) program. The donation will help students access the technology needed for coursework, online learning and career preparation, supporting their path to graduation and employment.
The BFET program helps eligible students continue receiving essential services, including Basic Food Assistance and childcare subsidies, while pursuing education and workforce training. Many students in the program balance school with work and family responsibilities, making access to reliable technology crucial as they work towards certificates, degrees and family-wage careers.
"Thank you for allowing us to be able to give back to the community and share what the Lions do," said Jeff Reynolds, Treasurer of the Bremerton Central Lions Charitable Foundation. "Supporting education and helping students succeed is one of the many ways we can make a lasting difference in our community."
Nursing student Sara Hewson, who is graduating June 20, said the gift will have a ripple effect, helping students overcome challenges and continue their education.
"This will enable students to not only start school, but to finish school," expressed Hewson. "This is a huge, huge gift. Having a reliable, fast computer will allow a student to be successful."
Odessa Kawai, the Director of the BFET program at Olympic College, said students are already eager to receive the laptops.
"We already have students signed up who need laptops that will help them in their school," said Kawai. "They're excited to actually stay in school now because they have what they need. On behalf of the BFET program, thank you very much."
Wendy Coates, Vice President of Development & Community Engagement at OC, and Executive Director of the OC Foundation said the donation is an investment in both students and the community.
"When students graduate, our community is better, our community is stronger," she said. "Getting these students through school and into living-wage jobs so that they can be part of our thriving community here in Bremerton and Kitsap County. You did that. This gift did that."
The laptop donation will help remove barriers to education for students and support Olympic College's mission to create pathways to opportunity, workforce readiness and community prosperity.
For more information about the Basic Food Employment and Training program at Olympic College, visit the BFET webpage.
Visit the Bremerton Central Lions Club website to learn more about its impact on our community over the past 100 years.
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