Computers Needed to Reduce Digital Divide

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Contacts:
Miranda Kortan: (216) 502-5087; mkortan@cuyahogacounty.us 


CUYAHOGA COUNTY, OH — Cuyahoga County is putting out a call for businesses to consider a donation of computers and other equipment to address the digital divide in Cuyahoga County. As school is out due to the coronavirus pandemic, schools are working to continue their education online, with classes and homework over the internet. Many crucial public services have also been moved online.

In Cuyahoga County, nearly 25 percent of homes lack-in home internet access of any kind. The children and families without internet access and computers struggle to access resources needed to continue their education and obtain online public services. Cuyahoga County will continue efforts to expand digital access throughout our community, but we are also calling on businesses to help.

“This crisis has only further exacerbated what we already know, in-home internet access with a usable device is a necessity in today’s society,” said Cuyahoga County Executive Armond Budish. “The support of PCs for People is one way we can continue to help address the divide throughout our community.”

One way businesses can help is through donation of computers, computer accessories (keyboards, monitors) and hotspots. Due to the quick switch to remote work, many businesses may find themselves with computer equipment that needs recycling. We are asking that businesses consider recycling their laptops, computers, tablets, and other computer accessories with a local non-profit, PCs for People, that works to provide free or low-cost devices to the public that is below 200 percent of the federal poverty level.

“We have been honored by our community's response and support as we prepare to distribute thousands of recently donated computers over the coming days and weeks. The gap however is still vast, and we will require our entire community's support to respond on the scale that is desperately needed,” said Executive Director of Cleveland PCs for People Bryan Mauk.

PCs for People is accepting donations during the COVID-19 crisis and has established guidelines to allow for safe pick-up of computers from businesses. The organization is NAID AAA-Certified for data destruction, allowing businesses to feel confident their data will be secure throughout the destruction process. Pick-up for most equipment is free to businesses and the process is compliant with COVID-19 best practices.

All equipment is needed and can be quickly turned around to families in our community. However, computer accessories such as keyboards and monitors are especially needed.

More information on the processes and security can be found at https://www.pcsforpeople.org/.

If your business is interested in scheduling a pick-up of computer equipment, please contact PCs for People at 216-406-6475.


  
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