As we all know, school will be virtual at least through the middle of October. While there are many challenges to creating equity in a remote learning environment, the most fundamental challenge is access. Kids can’t engage in remote learning if they don’t have a device and internet access. While DPS has taken steps to provide chromebooks, and mobile hot spots, the need has not been met for all students.
The Park Hill neighborhood is fortunate to have a new member – PCs for People – a social enterprise working toward digital equity by providing computers and internet access to those most in need. With a new location at 38th and Kearney, they are eager to serve the Greater Park Hill Community, particularly in this time of need.
They are connected to the schools and community organizations, so they are well aware of the demand. However, at the moment, they don’t have enough devices. So, we are calling on the community to go through your old drawers, boxes in the basement, etc. to find and donate your old devices. That laptop you’ve been looking at for the past several years can have a second life providing access to remote learning for someone in need.
PCs For People will wipe all existing data, refurbish the machine, upgrade the operating system, and get it ready for remote learning.
Additionally, PCs For People is a licensed electronic recycler. They strip old electronics of their valuable parts and recycle them, generating income to offset the costs of providing computers to those in need. So, that bag of cords, computer keyboards and mice, the old printer or fax machine — they take nearly everything (complete list here) and recycle or dispose of it in an environmentally friendly way.
Here’s a chance to give back, help educational equity, and clean out that old junk drawer.
How Can You Help Today?
- Drop computers / cables / printers, etc. at PCs for People (6035 E 38th) from 10am – 4pm / Monday – Friday
- Or drop on Andrew’s front porch – 1961 Holly St. – anytime.
If you’d like to donate to help offset the cost of refurbishing laptops and getting them to kids in need, http://donate.dmci.network – choose PHNEE – One Park Hill Fund from the dropdown.
For more info on PCs for People, check out this video: