Santa Barbara Partners Unite to Bridge Digital Divide for Students

Unite to Light, the Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara (HACSB), and Deckers Brands have joined forces to support low-income students through the annual Tools for School program. This year, the initiative expanded to include solar-powered Luke Lights and phone chargers for more than 200 junior high and high school students living in HACSB housing. The effort aims to reduce barriers to academic success caused by limited access to reliable lighting and charging sources.

Funded by a grant from Deckers, the lights and solar power banks will benefit students in Tools for School and Preparación, Bienestar y Cultura, a summer college readiness program. Leaders say the project is about more than technology – it’s about equity and empowering youth to succeed academically. The Tools for School event also provided over 450 local students with backpacks, school supplies, and connections to youth-serving organizations.