FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE March 1, 2000 CONTACT: Edmund Byrnes 202-606-2572 or edbyrnes@opm.gov The U.S. Office of Personnel Management Donates Computers to Help Those in Need

Washington, D.C. - As computers become more and more an essential part of life, those without access to them will lose out on the many benefits they provide. As part of the Clinton/Gore Administration's efforts to narrow the technology gap in communities that are lacking in resources, United States Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Director Janice R. Lachance donated 10 computers to Children Without Borders, which is helping those devastated by the 1998 flood in Del Rio, Texas.

"People everywhere must extend a helping hand whenever they see someone in need," said the Director of OPM, Janice R. Lachance. "And that is exactly what OPM has done, it has heeded the call to help where help is needed most."

The computers were distributed by Children Without Borders through the San Felipe Del Rio Independent School District to the city of Ciudad Acuna, Mexico, and the volunteer organization Casa de Cultura in Del Rio. Casa de Cultura provides after school programs to teach English and citizenship, and to help both children and their parents learn how to use a computer.

In recognition of OPM's contribution, the President of Children Without Borders, Al Birkhead, said "We are very grateful to your agency for sending us these computers. We know technology is very important. It will have great utilization for children to communicate on the Internet."

OPM oversees the federal work force and provides the American public with up-to-date employment information. OPM also supports agencies with personnel services and policy leadership including staffing tools, guidance on labor-management relations and programs to improve workforce performance.