WOKINGHAM Lions Club, in conjunction with Wokingham Borough Libraries, First Days Children’s Charity, and Share Wokingham, has launched a new computer repair scheme that should benefit people unable to access technology.
The venture, called ReTec (recycling technology), will recycle laptops and distribute them to those in need.
People are invited to donate their unwanted, old or broken notebook computers and accessories.
They will be cleaned, refurbished and tested before being given to families in need, Ukrainian refugees, charities, schools and local non-profit organisations.
Wokingham Lions President Claire Mangers-Page says: “We are aware that there is still a digital divide in our community.
“Both adults and children are unable to access services and education that could assist them, due to a lack of computer equipment at home.
“We’ll be working with our colleagues at First Days and Share Wokingham to help bridge the divide in Wokingham.
“And Wokingham Borough Libraries will be supporting us with collection locations, storage space and distribution.”
A similar scheme run by Fleet Lions Club has delivered more than 2,500 laptops in Hampshire.
Wokingham Lions Club hopes the programme will benefit the local community not just this year, but into the future.
ReTec is now ready to receive donations from the public throughout the borough.
Laptops, power supplies, mice and laptop bags can all be donated by individuals, organisations and companies.
All items will be completely cleaned, refurbished and tested before being loaded with basic applications.
Hard discs will be securely erased before use, and laptops that are too old or broken will be used for spare parts.
Donation points can be found during opening hours at the following borough libraries: Wokingham, Lower Earley, Woodley, Finchampstead, Winnersh, Twyford, Wargrave and Spencers Wood.
People can also deliver to Wokingham Charity and Community Hub in Waterford House, Denmark Street between, from Monday to Friday, between 9am and 5pm.
And items will be accepted at the following Share Wokingham drop-off points:
Mondays – Shinfield Baptist Church, between 12.30pm and 2pm; and Emmanuel Church Centre, Woodley, from 3.30pm to 4.30pm.
Tuesdays – FBC Centre, Finchampstead between 10am and 11.30am.
Wednesdays: Rainbow Centre, Winnersh, from 1pm to 2.30pm; and The Community Flat, Shinfield between 2pm and 3.30pm.
Fridays – Norreys Church, Wokingham, from 12.30pm to 2.30pm; and St. Andrews Church, Bracknell, between 1pm and 3.30pm.
Wokingham Lions Club will announce later in the year how refurbished laptops will be made available.
For further details, follow: @WokinghamLions, @ShareWokingham, or @FirstDaysCharity on Facebook or visit: www.wokinghamlions.org.uk
