Rosalina was first introduced to computers when she worked as a paraeducator in the school district, where she was employed for 29 years before retiring.
Two years ago, Rosalina moved into an apartment managed by EAH Housing. She was among the first few residents who took part in computer classes offered by EAH staff in 2021. She learned about tips to identify and avoid scams, as well as how to scan and share photos.
This year, CTN partnered with EAH to bring expanded digital literacy programming to their residents, teaching hands-on, in-person, basic to intermediate skill training.
Rosalina continues to return to the classes because she says that she can always learn something new and interesting. With her new skills, Rosalina plays online games (which helps keep her cognition and memory skills sharp), finds recipes to support healthy eating, and connects with her loved ones using Facetime.
Rosalina shared her computer learning journey and says that it was not easy because she did not grow up with technology. However, she has an open mind and she is very eager to learn new things. That makes a huge difference. For example, she initially hesitated to use online bill paying but she gave it a try and she never went back to writing checks.
Recently CTN’s Sabrina Tam helped Rosalina apply for the federal government’s Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which offers subsidies to lower the cost of home internet bills. After submitting the proper documentation, she was approved within 30 minutes. She can now receive a $30 discount on her monthly internet bill.
Rosalina says, “I’m so happy that I have a discounted internet connection at home now. I did not know that it is so easy. I live on a small fixed income; every bit of saving helps.”
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