City of Kitchener donates 40 computers to the Working Centre’s Computer Recycling Program

The City of Kitchener made its first donation of 40 laptop and desktop computers today to The Working Centre’s Computer Recycling Program as part of a newly expanded city program. Earlier this year, Kitchener City Council approved the program's expansion to redirect end-of-lifecycle laptop and desktop technology assets from e-waste providers to make them available to local community groups and programs to be repurposed to support the local community.

“I am thrilled that our first donation with this newly expanded program is with The Working Centre, which has been making a difference in people’s lives in Kitchener for more than 40 years,” said Mayor Berry Vrbanovic. “Through this partnership with The Working Centre, the City of Kitchener is demonstrating its commitment to climate action while also putting Digital Kitchener’s commitment towards digital equity into action by giving computers a second life and providing residents access to affordable technology.”

“At the Working Centre, we see such a large need for affordable computers among the people we serve,” said Martin Edmonds, of The Working Centre, “We appreciate the computer donations from the City of Kitchener and are pleased to be able to refurbish them and make them available at a low-cost to eligible recipients in the community.”

The Working Centre accepts technology donations, assesses and sorts the equipment, harvests reusable parts, builds and tests refurbished laptop and desktop computers. Donated equipment is wiped to ensure confidential data is protected. The Working Centre then provides these low-cost computers to people living on a low income.

“Partnering with existing programs such as The Working Centre’s Computer Recycling program is the most cost-effective solution with the highest benefit to the community,” said Paul Singh, Ward 6 Councillor and Chair of the City’s Planning and Strategic Initiatives Committee, who initially proposed staff look into sustainable options for repurposing technology. “It is an environmentally responsible way to dispose of technology no longer used by the city while supporting a community need.”

The city will continue to donate to other non-profit organizations, as allowed, with the existing procurement bylaw for disposition of surplus assets.

Read the city’s report online, or learn more about the Working Centre’s Computer Recycling program by visiting computerrecycling.theworkingcentre.org.

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For more information

Bethany Rowland
Director, Corporate Communications
City of Kitchener
bethany.rowland@kitchener.ca