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Computer donation program going to next level
The Cranbrook Computer Donation Program, a tripartite partnership of Kootenay Computer, the Cranbrook Chamber of Commerce, and the Salvation Army, has been providing refurbished computers to the community for the past two years.
Over 100 units have gone out to ensure that students, families, and local organizations are able to bridge the digital divide and function with a high level of connectivity. The program has recently received a grant from the Columbia Basin Trust, which facilitates the employment of a technician dedicated to the program.
Donations from communities in the East Kootenay, along with a large donation from School District No. 5, have provided a significant stock of computers to be refurbished and repurposed.
“We could never have anticipated the program would go so large and be so successful,” said Kootenay Computer’s Sebastiaan van der Horst. “We initially set a goal of 150 units in the first three years but those numbers will be exceeded. It is so important that everyone has access to a good computer and to the Internet. Without it you cannot complete homework, apply for a job, or even check the transit or rec centre schedule.”
The program is still accepting used equipment from the community.
If you would like to contribute to this extremely successful altruistic initiative you can drop off your used equipment at the Chamber of Commerce office Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
All hard drives are immediately wiped clean using a Microsoft Certified three wipe process ensuring any data is permanently deleted.
If residents or community organizations would like to receive a refurbished computer please contact Nancy at the Salvation Army, 250-426-3612.
Above image: From left to right Niels Heij, Laura Kennedy, Shawn Swanson, Michelle Doll, Sebastiaan van der Horst. Photo submitted
Submitted