HUD ANNOUNCES EXCITING HIGH TECH INITIATIVE

The HUD New York State Office joined with three local computer learning centers to kick-off an exciting new high
tech program to help New York City residents living in HUD assisted and subsidized housing developments. The announcement took place at the Citicorp building on 153 East 53rd Street in Manhattan.

The Starrett Information and Technology Education Center in Brooklyn, the Diane Armstrong Family Learning Center (part of Goodwill Industries) in Long Island City and the Kraus Computer Learning Center in Brooklyn will give HUD residents access to the latest in computer technology to produce videos and slideshows using digital cameras and video editing software on the computer. Participants will be taught how to use the cameras, how to transfer the pictures and video into the computer, edit their production, and allow others to view the final product either
through the internet or on a VCR or DVD connected to a television.

"HUD's Neighborhood Networks Program has been providing 'digital opportunities' to residents of HUD multi-family housing for the past six years. The 'Digital Media Technology' initiative raises the bar in computer training and puts
our Neighborhood Network Centers in the forefront of learning by utilizing cutting-edge technology to promote
careers in video, photography, advertising and publishing," said Marisel Morales, HUD Regional Director for New York and New Jersey.

Under its Neighborhood Networks Program, established in 1995, HUD is providing funding to the development owners for the Centers to pay for the initial start-up costs and equipment. The Program was designed to establish
computer-learning centers in HUD multifamily rental housing developments, in neighborhood/community centers or
in storefronts near HUD housing developments. Both HUD residents and neighborhood residents are eligible to participate in the program.

Currently, there are 15 designated Neighborhood Network Centers in the New York City/Long Island area with an additional five centers ready to open during the summer.

"Goodwill Industries sees the Digital Video Editing Program as a wonderful opportunity to engage young people 16 to 25 years of age in possible careers not previously available to them. The program will enhance the services to our young adults being provided by our Family Learning Center. This is definitely a win-win situation," said Karen Means, Vice President for Youth and Community Services, Goodwill Industries.

"The Kraus Organization is pleased to join forces with HUD in order to bring the latest computer technology and our expertise in training these skills into the lives of our residents and the Williamsburg community," said Stephen R.
Kraus, Senior Vice President, the Kraus Organization.

The Centers offer a variety of programs for children, teens, adults and seniors, including introduction to computers, word processing, spreadsheets, internet access, English as a second language, life skills, GED, job training, interviewing skills, resume writing, performing and graphic arts, SAT preparation and after school homework assistance.

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