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County program to distribute 400 free computers and two years of internet unveiled; lottery and health fair planned
Summary
Presenters told the court a countywide computer-giveaway and health "pachanga" will offer 400 computers (via lottery), two years of free internet service and health screenings; event planned at Sunisa Park in Precinct 3 with eligibility focused on households with students and low-income residents.
Presenters invited by a county official described a planned computer-giveaway and health event to Starr County commissioners on Feb. 24 that aims to provide 400 computers to households and two years of free internet service.
Esmeralda (presenter invited by Mr. Velasquez) told the court, "The goal is to assist or to give away 400 computers to anyone in the community. It's gonna be like a lottery system." She said applicants must register (via a barcode) and that the program will provide free internet for two years; organizers hope the service eventually could be extended to lifetime service for recipients if the program expands.
Esmeralda and another presenter, Gabby Martinez, said eligibility prioritizes households with schoolchildren and low-income families but also allows college students to sign up. Fabriela, identified in the transcript as a community council member, said the council brought the program forward "to help out the families from the community. That's why we're doing it."
Presenters said the event will include health screenings (including liver screenings) and will be held at Sunisa Park in Precinct 3. They noted the program intends to give away 400 computers and that, if demand warrants, organizers have been told they could increase the distribution to as many as 600 units.
No formal county action was required; presenters used the court meeting to inform commissioners and request assistance with outreach.
