Charity seeks more old laptops and computers

GEELONG charity PCs for Kids is calling for donations of laptops and computers, as the demand for assistance rises.

The group donates computers to children under the age of 18 that have personal or family circumstances preventing them from having access to a suitable computer.

With an increase in cost of living, PCs for Kids has seen an increase in demand for the devices.

Last year, the charity donated 89 computers to those in need – twice the number of previous years – and are expecting to see the number climb again this year.

“It never stops, there’s applications that just keep coming in and you want to fulfil them for everyone, cause everyone in some way deserves it,” PCs for Kids manager Shane Petterwood said.

“It gives a lot of kids the chance to have a computer so they can take it home from school and actually continue studying from home.

“A lot of schools have loan computers, but the kids aren’t allowed to take them home, which is a real disadvantage.”

Recipients of the computers must be referred by a school, charity, or relevant support organisation.

All donations have the data securely wiped before they are then passed on or sold.

Along with donations, PCs for Kids also sells refurbished computers, using the money from those sales to donate to primary schools.

“The computers we sell, we sell them at really reasonable prices, so it’s still helping people who might not qualify for a free one, including adults,” board member Philippa Lytzki said.

Last year, the charity donated about $70,000 to 15 primary schools, with some choosing to use the money to update their existing technology.

The charity is 100 per cent volunteer run and also takes e-waste, selling parts from dismantled items to be able to donate schools and keeping items from ending up in landfill.

Since 2020 PCs for kids have undergone a complete change in management.

Donations of old laptops, computers and e-waste can be made at 1A/40 Gregory Ave Newtown.

For more information head to pcsforkids.com.au