Signal Mountain Social Services is now offering computer and Internet access to its clients at its location on Mississippi Avenue.
"There was a need we saw of folks who cannot afford Internet access and computers," said SMSS Director Mary Lee Ziebold, adding that many employers now require job applicants to apply online. "We wanted to offer that for employment purposes."
She said that schools are now also posting students' grades as well as project assignments online.
"This puts parents at a disadvantage who don't have Internet access or computers," said Ziebold. "If you can catch kids who are struggling initially, parents can get on it and help them get back on track."
The computers are available for use by SMSS clients Monday-Friday from 10 a.m. to noon.
Students can also use the computers after school for homework assignments by appointment, she said, and other clients can call ahead to use the computers outside the regularly scheduled hours.
Donors on Signal Mountain provided the computers and hardware for use by SMSS, said Ziebold.
"We want to say thank you to our donors for making it possible to help members of our community with their employment and academic needs," she said.
In addition to offering computer and Internet access, SMSS is expanding its tutoring program to include elementary-age children.
"We want to help them build a strong foundation in their math and reading skills, and along with that comes better self-esteem," Ziebold said.