OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla.—Love's Travel Stops & Country Stores has donated 40 laptop computers to Crooked Oak High School in the chain’s hometown of Oklahoma City, the company announced.

The pandemic has created challenges for public education with schools adopting virtual learning formats to help keep students, faculty and staff safe, but many schools and students can’t afford computers.

"Nothing has a bigger return on investment for a child than a good education," said Jenny Love Meyer, executive vice president and chief culture officer, Love's. "We're thrilled to help the community with these computer donations. No student or school should be punished because of financial burdens associated with COVID-19."

Students at Crooked Oak are splitting time between virtual and in-school learning. The donated computers will go to students unable to purchase their own.

"The donated computers will be a big help in educating our students each and every day," said Laura Knight, principal of the school. "Now, more than ever, the way we think about a classroom is changing quickly. Having these computers ensures our students can learn no matter where they work."

Donations were spurred by the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, which is encouraging communities to close the digital divide by helping lower- and moderate-income families participate in online learning. The Kansas City Fed serves the Tenth Federal Reserve District, which includes Oklahoma.