“They told me after prison before we left that everything was going to be set up for me,” said Samuel Jabbarr. “But when I got out of here, it was totally different.”

After being in prison for 35 years, 75-year-old Jabbarr is now trying to navigate his new world.

“After I was gone, all this time and all these years, I was at loss because of all the new technology that was going on,” said Jabbarr. “I didn’t know where to begin.”

But a new digital literacy program will break barriers and bridge that digital divide. It will be presented by the Center for Community Alternatives (CCA) and AT&T. Former inmates and those in recovery will be able to take computer classes at the Center and Freedom Commons.

“Being able to use a smartphone, being able to navigate the world with a Chromebook -- it’s a necessity now, not just a luxury,” said Kelly Gonzalez, the CCA deputy director. “So, when you’re talking about people being able to do "Zoom" meetings, being able to do job applications, telehealth.”

Gonzalez said they’ll also implement the “earn as you learn” model. They’ll provide stipends to those who participate and ensure they feel empowered with their technology.

“So, they can do what they want in terms of rebuilding their life after incarceration, be that their own recovery, be that employment, even staying connected with family,” said Gonzalez.

Gonzalez said it will also improve the economy, reduce recidivism, and save lives.

“It’s going to benefit me and anyone else who comes along, but they have to put their heart into it,” said Jabbarr.

It reminds himself and others not to give up, as they move forward on their journey of freedom.

Jabbarr said they can’t give up, because it will give them the necessary sense of direction on their long-awaited road of freedom.