Shaniqua
In the digital era, youth who can’t access technology are locked out of the world.
With the right support, we can bridge the digital divide.
When Shaniqua arrived in Canada, everything felt foreign. She faced racism, isolation, and an identity crisis that took a toll on her mental health.
But one thing made a difference. Through The Local Charity’s Computer Donation Program, Shaniqua received a laptop, opening a new world of possibility. It might sound small. To her, it meant access to school, work, and stability. It meant a path forward.
“I was always in fight-or-flight mode. That laptop gave me space to breathe.”
Did you know?
First-generation immigrant youth in Canada experience significantly higher symptoms of depression and anxiety, often linked to racial discrimination and cultural adjustment challenges.
— Guan et al., 2023 (study on immigrant youth mental health in Canada) (1)
Low-income families who upgrade their digital devices less frequently are at a higher risk of cybercrime. Additionally, as more public discourse moves online, those without access to devices and internet connectivity are silenced.
— CEIP, 2023 (2)
There’s still time to help
Your donation helps more youth like Tristan, Alisha & Star get what they need: care, tools, and a chance to rise.
Get to know other Voices of Resilience
Shaniqua
"Quincy"
Alisha
Star
Toni
Tristan
At The Local Charity, we focus on three key pillars that empower youth to transform their lives from within.
Mental Health
Empowerment begins with the mind. We strive to equip youth with positive and resilient mindsets to lead fulfilling lives.
Essential Life Skills
Essential Life Skills form the foundation of success. With the right practical tools, we enable youth to unleash their full potential.
Technology
In a digital world, access to technology is crucial. By providing access to computers and the Internet, we offer youth a stepping stone to success.
The Success Accelerator is TLC’s core program. It helps youth build stability, confidence, and leadership through mentorship, listening, and practical tools.
(1) Lerias, D., Ziaian, T., Arthur, N., Augoustinos, M., Pir, T., & Miller, E. (2025). The Mental Health of Refugee and Migrant Youth after Settlement: Outcomes of a Multinational Study. Community Mental Health Journal. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10597-025-01474-9
(2) Anthony, Aubra. (March 13th, 2023) Cyber resilience must focus on marginalized individuals, not just institutions. Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. https://carnegieendowment.org/research/2023/03/cyber-resilience-must-focus-on-marginalized-individuals-not-just-institutions?lang=en