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SENIORS, COMMUNITY PARTNERS, AND HUD
CELEBRATE IN THE DEDICATION OF A
NEIGHBORHOOD NETWORKS COMPUTER CENTER

Richland, WA  - Today, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), TriCities Terrace I, Shalom Ecumenical Center, G&B Real Estate Services, Episcopal Diocese of Spokane, TriCities Terrace residents, and supporting community groups celebrate the dedication of the TriCities Terrace Neighborhood Networks Center.

Located in Richland, Washington, this Neighborhood Network Center is the 39th center in a Washington State HUD insured and assisted facility. The TriCities Terrace Neighborhood Networks Center is part of the Neighborhood Networks Initiative sponsored by HUD to provide new economic and community- based opportunities. The initiative encourages owners and managers of HUD assisted housing to create computer learning centers on-site for the residents and community, with the help of other community partners and resources, both public and private.

Of particular significance is the fact that TriCities Terrace Neighborhood Networks Center is a comprehensive, community-based program that will provide educational opportunities for seniors to learn and connect with their community. TriCities Terrace I is a 60-unit apartment building, home to 60 plus residents, primarily seniors. TriCities Terrace provides safe, affordable housing and supportive services, thereby, allowing seniors to remain at home as long as possible. TriCities Terrace Neighborhood Networks Center brings the services and community connections right to the seniors' home.

TriCities Terrace Neighborhood Networks Center's objectives and focus include: · · ·

• Provide senior community members with access to technology and the Internet;
• Provide senior community members with access to local services and health care options.
• Teach basic to advanced computer skills in a non-intimidating environment among peers and provide an opportunity for shared learning and community involvement,

The TriCities Terrace Neighborhood Networks Center is an example of partners working together for the benefits of the residents and community. Partners include Wired Technologies, Computer Renaissance, David Ortiz Construction and Paint, and Office Depot. Together these partners have created a unique environment that incorporates the use and access of technology directly into the every day routine of the residents of TriCities Terrace. It is an example of the benefits derived by linking technology and housing together to meet the needs of the residents and community.

Computer literacy is quickly becoming an important requirement of daily living in today's society. It is critical that seniors have a thorough understanding of computers and software in order to communicate with needed services, organizations, doctors, and family members. Personal computers and computer literacy greatly enhance and facilitate the individual residents' pursuit of economic independence and also provides opportunities for education, socialization, and community information.

TriCities Terrace Neighborhood Networks Center is one of over 1000 centers that have opened up nationwide. There are 700 more in the planning stages.

For more information about the dedication or TriCities Terrace, please call Karen Heppler, Neighborhood Network Coordinator, at (509) 979-8667. Visit Neighborhood Networks to learn more.

More information about HUD and its programs is available on the Internet at www.hud.gov.