Digital access is essential to nearly every aspect of society. We call the growing gap in access to technology the digital divide. It encompasses the economic, educational, and social inequalities between those who have computers and Internet access and those who do not. Lack of digital access has a direct impact on the ability of students to achieve their full academic potential. This lack of access creates what is known as the "homework gap". The homework gap is the difficulty students experience completing homework when they lack access to a device and/or internet at home, compared to those who have access. This gap is still very alive in Oregon. Currently, 75,000 Oregon students do not have a personal computer to complete their online assignments.
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If you would like to help us provide computers to the individuals and organizations on our waitlist, please donate here.
If it is within your budget to purchase a computer, please refer to our Online Store in order to purchase low-cost devices. If you don’t see anything within your price range in the Online Store, please refer to the information on this webpage to find out more and get in touch with Free Geek’s sales and customer service department.
The application below is to apply to get on the waitlist for a device.
Who is eligible?
This program is available to any individual and organization who meets the criteria of being low-income.
Individuals and organizations whose community are currently houseless and/or experiencing unstable housing situations, who are low-income and students with accessibility needs will be prioritized for computers.
What kind of computer will you receive?
Laptop participants receive a laptop computer that runs the Linux Mint operating system and a one-year warranty with digital navigation support. This computer will include:
- i5 or better processor
- 8GB of RAM
- Speakers and/or headphones (depending on inventory)
- USB mouse
Have more questions? Email us at computerfriends@freegeek.org.
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