Digital Inclusion Education Event & Free Laptop Giveaway, August 1st
Texas Border Business
BROWNSVILLE, Texas – The City of Brownsville and its IT Department are equipping students with laptops and tech skills development in preparation for the upcoming school year. The City’s IT Department is now accepting applications for its laptop giveaway, which is part of its Smart City: City of Brownsville Back to School Digital Skills Workshop and Laptop Giveaway initiative. It’s designed to provide support for students in need.
The initiative reflects the City’s ongoing commitment to advancing technology within the community and educational opportunities. Selected students from qualifying households will receive a new laptop, which will assist them with completing assignments, engaging in virtual learning, and strengthening their digital skills.
“We understand how critical technology is in today’s educational landscape, which is why we partnered with Omni Fiber to install fiber optic cable internet service across the City,” said Mayor John Cowen Jr., City of Brownsville. “This initiative and this grant funded giveaway, is one way we can help level the playing field for students who may not otherwise have access to these essential resources.”
“Access to technology should never be a barrier to a student’s success,” said Helen Ramirez, ICMA-CM, AICP, Brownsville City Manager. “Through this laptop giveaway, we are not only investing in our youth, but, reinforcing our City’s commitment to digital advancement for generations to come.”
As part of the laptop giveaway, the City will offer computer skills development workshops on August 1, 2025, at the Brownsville Events Center. The workshop is scheduled to run from 5:00PM to 8:00PM.
During the workshop, the IT Department will offer training on subjects that include email use and safety, phone safety, and bank security. Attendees will also receive a special presentation on “Microsoft Copilot” and its practical applications for students and families.
“We believe every student deserves the tools to thrive in a digital world,” said Jorge Cardenas, CIO at the City of Brownsville. “This laptop giveaway is helping to close the technology gap and empower students to reach their full academic potential.”
To qualify for a free grant-funded laptop, students and their family must meet the following criteria:
Must reside within the City of Brownsville.
Be enrolled in a Brownsville Public School.
Must show proof of need.
Only one laptop per family.
Participants must attend the scheduled workshop to receive a laptop.
Students may apply for the program through July 15, 2025. Students can register by clicking on the following link: https://grantworks.quickbase.com/db/btdwkqqac?a=dbpage&pageID=25.
Media inquiries may be directed to the City’s Communications and Marketing Department
at (956) 556-1811 or at Manuel.Chacon@BrownsvilleTX.gov.