Vistra Computer Giveaway to Address Digital Divide in South and West Dallas

DALLAS, August 27, 2020 /3BL Media/ – As the pandemic continues to expose a deep digital divide in our education system, Vistra’s flagship retail electricity brand, TXU Energy, and Comp-U-Dopt are partnering with the City of Dallas to give away 400 computers. Dallas families with at least one middle school student, who previously registered through a lottery system, received their devices contactless drive-thru events.

“The digital divide existed prior to the pandemic, but the uncertainty around the school year has further exacerbated the need for students to have access to technology. As the leading retail electricity provider in the state, TXU Energy takes seriously our responsibility to strengthen the communities we serve. Our hope is that these computers will provide a bridge to more solid learning opportunities for students in the fall,” said Brad Watson, TXU Energy community affairs senior director.

Refurbished Comp-U-Dopt laptops, purchased by TXU Energy, include the Windows 10 operating system, two years of technical support, and information on free and low-cost internet options depending on individual family need.

“During this time of great need in our city, the efforts of our private partners are critical to bringing equity to our communities. That is why we are thrilled to partner with TXU Energy and Comp-U-Dopt on this program, which will help provide hundreds of students with the technology that they need this school year,” Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson said. "We must continue to commit ourselves to giving our children every chance to succeed in light of the challenging circumstances they face.” 

According to the Pew Research Institute, 46% of low-income families lack access to a computer at home. With supply chain delays and the global demand for devices at an all-time high, Comp-U-Dopt’s mission to provide technology access and education to underserved youth is needed now, more than ever.

“We are excited to be partnering with TXU Energy to ensure students in the community have the tools they need to access distance learning resources,” says Megan Steckly, CEO for Comp-U-Dopt. “Partnerships like this demonstrate how solvable this issue really is for the community.” 

About TXU Energy
More Texans trust TXU Energy to power their homes and businesses than any other electricity provider. We’re passionate about creating experiences and solutions tailored to fit the needs of our customers, including electricity plans, online tools to help save, renewable energy options and more. TXU Energy is also committed to cultivating a dynamic and enjoyable workplace where all our people can succeed. Visit txu.com for more. TXU Energy is a subsidiary of Vistra (NYSE: VST). REP #10004

About Comp-U-Dopt
Comp-U-Dopt is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization founded in 2007 with a mission to provide technology access and education to underserved youth. To date they have distributed over 17,000 devices to students in need and delivered over 100,000 hours of technology education.  Each year they serve 3,000-plus young people from economically disadvantaged families providing computers and quality STEM and workforce focused afterschool programming. They have programs in Chicago, Dallas, Galveston, Houston, and Washington D.C. www.compudopt.org