The digital landscape has changed significantly since 1995 when the BC Technology for Learning Society (BCTLS) began providing computers to schools through a federal government program.
Today, the BCTLS now provides refurbished devices to non-profits, schools and low-income individuals who need access to affordable technology.
91裸聊视频淲e did achieve our 200,000 computer milestone last March, we were excited about that,91裸聊视频� said Mary-Em Waddington, BCTLS executive director. 91裸聊视频淲e distributed over 7,000 computers across B.C. last fiscal year.91裸聊视频�
The non-profit organization collects donations of used devices primarily from the federal government, local businesses and post-secondary institutions.
91裸聊视频淲e have youth on a paid internship to learn to refurbish those computers and distribute them back to schools, non-profit organizations and low-income family homes,91裸聊视频� Waddington explained.
She said many children and youth now take their own devices to school but pointed out that many families cannot afford to provide their kids a laptop or tablet. The need for 91裸聊视频渢echnology for everyone,91裸聊视频� the BCTLS vision statement, was particularly relevant during COVID.
91裸聊视频淭hat really opened everyone91裸聊视频檚 eyes about the importance of the work that we do because everyone had to learn from home, if there was a device,91裸聊视频� Waddington noted. 91裸聊视频淭hat created a lot of problems for a number of families, making sure everyone was supported with technology to do their daily things.91裸聊视频�
She said one school district BCTLS provided computers with commented that a "student not having their own device to use sets them apart and creates inequality."
Devices are free to those who are eligible, and the organization also offers refurbished computers for sale on its website to help cover costs.
91裸聊视频淲e91裸聊视频檙e feeling a lot of inflation points as others are,91裸聊视频� Waddington said. 91裸聊视频淚t helps with our operating costs and still maintains an affordable package for someone who is low-income and needs access to a computer.91裸聊视频�
In August, the organization partnered with the Ministry of Social Development and Poverty Reduction to provide 500 students with a free laptop to help reduce their costs and enhance their learning. The students, who are aging out of care, receive the Ministry of Children and Family Development Provincial Tuition Waiver.
91裸聊视频淭hat is such a good news story and speaks to the innovation we are able to deliver,91裸聊视频� Waddington added. This innovative use of government funds is helping youth with limited access to tech secure their own device and take charge of their technology and future.91裸聊视频�
There were 55 computers delivered to Okanagan College students.
91裸聊视频淭o work in a re-use organization that is helping with education and making sure people have the things they need is very meaningful to me,91裸聊视频� Waddington said.
The BCTLS accepts donations of gently-used computers, 8th generation or newer (5-6 years old), that will run Windows 11, Apple products, and monetary gifts.
More information is available on the .
