Thursday, 100 young scholars at 21st Century Charter School in Gary received brand new Chromebooks, all thanks to a generous donation.
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"It feels really special because it's something new and I've never had it before," said Payton Lanier, 6th grader.
Two years ago, widespread remote learning wasn't even an option. Now it's a way of life for many students. But not everyone has access to reliable technology, which is where Gary native Eric Smoot-Hemphill stepped in.
"I remember not having the proper resources to be fully successful," he said.
Smoot-Hemphill co-owns Redefined Fitness in Wilmette. He was homeless, but track and field gave him a way out and now he wants to give back to young people.
"You know what, I wore this shirt for a reason, I'm grateful," Smoot-Hemphill said. "That says it all."
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And paying it forward is making a big impact.
"It feels amazing," said 5th grader Kaden Hargrove. "I'm indescribably happy."
Principal Nikki Dates said the donation sends a strong message "that anything is possible."
Smoot-Hemphill and Redefined Fitness raised $60,000 in 14 days, all of which went to buying laptops for children in two local schools.