How to Get Free Computers for Low Income Schools
A teacher shortage, cuts in enrichment programs and the virtual disappearance of sanctioned sports programs have hit the American school system hard, and while technology isn't a cure-all for the education system's woes, it can make up for shortfalls if the tools are available to children in classrooms. One of the best ways to stimulate minds is by offering computers at school---particularly if kids have no access at home. For that reason, a number of agencies are springing up to donate recycled computers to low-income schools. Find out who some of them are and how you can qualify for your share.
Instructions
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1
Write a clear, concise and fact-filled request that states why your school needs free computers, how many you would like, what demographic your school serves and the goals you hope to achieve by offering students opportunities to use the computers in the classroom.
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2
Petition the Jim Mullen Foundation if your disadvantaged students are also physically or mentally challenged. Request a copy of JMF's Computer Giveaway program video and then download an application from the JMF website. Ask about adaptive hardware and software when you communicate with JMF. Additionally, San Francisco-based GiveTech gives computers to physically challenged children, so check them out, too.
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Contact the National Cristina Foundation for surplus and used computers that have been refurbished following large donations of equipment by corporations and individuals. Use the statement you wrote in Step 1 to complete application documents after you have downloaded them from NCF's website.
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Seek computers that have been retired from use by the U.S. government. Visit the Computers for Learning site to request refurbished computers earmarked exclusively for schools, educational nonprofits and other systems unable to underwrite the purchase of computers for their student body.
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Find computers for your school's laboratories from the PEP National Directory of Computer Recycling Program. Inquire into the current stock of PEP hardware received from donations to see if there are computers available for your school laboratory.
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Check out the website for Free Computers for Education, an organization that works with Rotary Clubs around the globe to give new life to technology discarded by business and industry. Expect to receive computers in good condition as professional techies work on these donations to bring them up to speed before they are sent to their new homes.
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Visit the Computer Recycling Center's website to get the scoop on this nonprofit's Computers and Education Program. Low-income teachers may also qualify for computers in addition to school facilities, so be prepared to submit multiple applications for staff and students.
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