Computer Refurbishing
PHIRST LINK'S Computer Refurbishing & Recycling initiative is a developing network of community support, supplying donated computer equipment and licensed software to members of the disability community.
Donated computer equipment is refurbished by our volunteers, and set up for use with a Windows operating system, the Open Office suite of Word Processing & Spreadsheets, an anti-virus program, Zoom Meeting capability, and remote access software.
The refurbished computers are then redistributed.
Staff will also set up members' workstations, and provide the related instruction.
As a programme partner of the Microsoft Registered Refurbishing Programme, (depending upon supply and demand) we make refurbished computers available to Kitchener Waterloo AccessAbility members who could not otherwise afford them.
Unlike other programme partners who can charge at least $100 for a computer, our refurbished computers are completely free of charge to our agency members, as they become available.
When it is time for a computer or computer equipment upgrade, old non-functioning computers are stripped down, and the parts recycled by us through local collection sites of the Ontario Electronic Stewardship Programme.
Recycling these components recovers what can be used again, safely manages hazardous materials which should never go to a landfill, frees up critical storage space at our facility, and provides us with token monetary remuneration.
We accept all functioning computers under five years in age, as well as flat screen monitors, mice, keyboards, and network cards.
We do not accept printers, as they take up a lot of storage space, and have become highly inexpensive to purchase independently. Furthermore, we do not have the resources to purchase ink to test printers, and we want to avoid giving a non-working printer to someone who then needlessly purchases ink.
Please call ahead to ensure that we can use what you have available to donate. Thank you for helping us in our recycling and refurbishing efforts.