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. 

鈥淲e did achieve our 200,000 computer milestone last March, we were excited about that,鈥� said Mary-Em Waddington, BCTLS executive director. 鈥淲e distributed over 7,000 computers across B.C. last fiscal year.鈥�

The non-profit organization collects donations of used devices primarily from the federal government, local businesses and post-secondary institutions.

鈥淲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,鈥� 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 鈥渢echnology for everyone,鈥� the BCTLS vision statement, was particularly relevant during COVID.

鈥淭hat really opened everyone鈥檚 eyes about the importance of the work that we do because everyone had to learn from home, if there was a device,鈥� Waddington noted. 鈥淭hat created a lot of problems for a number of families, making sure everyone was supported with technology to do their daily things.鈥�

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.

鈥淲e鈥檙e feeling a lot of inflation points as others are,鈥� Waddington said. 鈥淚t helps with our operating costs and still maintains an affordable package for someone who is low-income and needs access to a computer.鈥�

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.

鈥淭hat is such a good news story and speaks to the innovation we are able to deliver,鈥� 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.鈥�

There were 55 computers delivered to Okanagan College students.

鈥淭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,鈥� 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 .