A microsoft Community Award will help Penwith's migrant workers learn computing skills.Newlyn Trinity Methodist Church is one of 30 winning community groups selected out of 400 organisations nationwide to receive a Microsoft Community Learning Award.

The church recently completed work on its £800,000 development, "The Centre", a multi-purpose church and community centre with activities including training, youth club, dance and sports such as short mat bowls and badminton.

The award of £2,500 in addition to Microsoft's internet and Office software will enable the centre to develop services specifically for the migrant worker community in Penwith.

"As well as developing their IT skills, we hope to help them improve their knowledge of English, and provide information about health, social care and education services," explained Jerry Drew, a development worker at the centre.

The award was presented by Bronwyn Kunhardt, Head of Corporate Reputation and Diversity at Microsoft at a ceremony in London on Tuesday.

This is the second year Microsoft UK Ltd and the national charity Citizens Online have run the scheme which seeks to help organisations reach people who are excluded from existing IT training and support schemes in their area.

The award is part of Microsoft's global giving initiative, Unlimited Potential, a commitment to help eliminate technology illiteracy supported by a long-term investment of cash and software.

Newlyn Trinity Methodist Church will launch the project soon.

* Anyone interested in volunteering can call Jerry Drew on 01736 368920.

article copyright THE CORNISHMAN 

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