A new computer lab at Van Dyke Houses in Brownsville gives NYCHA residents access to technology for school, work and community programs.
The Public Housing Community Fund, the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA), the Van Dyke Resident Association and CAMBA on Oct. 15 opened a new computer lab at the Van Dyke Community Center in Brownsville.
Supported by a $10,000 donation from Amazon, the renovated space gives residents of the Van Dyke Houses greater access to technology for education, job searches, workforce training, telehealth and civic participation.
The renovation includes ten desktop computers, ten Chromebooks, two printers and additional computers for the Resident Association, along with new desks, chairs, plus a fresh coat of paint from NYCHA.
“The investment into the computer lab will bring new life to the community center and greatly improve access to technology resources as the school year kicks off,” said Alex Zablocki, executive director of the Public Housing Community Fund.
. Photo: Supplied/ Public Housing Community Fund
The upgraded lab creates a modern, welcoming environment for community learning and engagement. CAMBA, the Brooklyn-based nonprofit that operates the community center, will partner with the Resident Association to manage programming and support digital literacy initiatives.
The project is part of the Public Housing Community Fund’s broader effort to expand digital access across NYCHA developments by transforming community spaces into technology hubs.
The Van Dyke lab is the third site completed under this initiative, following redesigned labs at Pomonok Houses in Queens and the Meltzer Houses Senior Center in Manhattan.
“The residents of Van Dyke Houses will now have access to an incredible community hub where they can engage with technology in a multitude of meaningful ways,” said NYCHA Chief Operating Officer Eva Trimble.
Â