A condition in which all individuals and communities have the information technology capacity needed for participation in our society, democracy, and economy. Digital equity is necessary for civic and cultural participation, employment, lifelong learning and access to essential services.
SERVICES
NEED A FREE DEVICE?
The application to get on the waitlist for a Free Geek device is now open. This program is available to any individual and organization who meets the criteria of being low-income or serving low income communities. Individuals and organizations serving low income Black, Brown, Indigenous, Latinx and other people of color, communities who are currently houseless or experiencing unstable housing situations, and students with accessibility needs will be prioritized for computers. Both individuals and organizations can apply. The devices distributed through this program are NEW in box Windows laptops!
Click here to sign up for the waitlist
DIGITAL NAVIGATION
The Digital Navigator plays a vital role in fulfilling Free Geek's mission of narrowing the digital divide. The Digital Navigator provides active support to community members and partner organizations, navigating the internet; your device, affordable connectivity services, and coaching in essential digital skills.
Click here to schedule an appointment
DIGITAL SKILLS BUILDING
Our aim is to help close the digital divide by offering education, tools, and resources to have folks be able to effectively use their devices. We provide 3 foundational curriculum- Computer Basics, Internet Basics, Keyboard basics. We provide additional curriculum based on requests such as Internet Safety and G-suites.
AFFORDABLE TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM
Trusted guides who assist community members in internet adoption and the use of computing devices. This program enables partnership opportunities with organizations looking to fill technology needs at an affordable price. With this program, partners are able to purchase computers with order requests over 10. We build partnerships from proposals which align with Free Geek’s goals and needs as outlined in below. To begin exploring a partnership, please inquire at the link below:
COMMUNITY RESOURCES
COMMUNITY TECHNOLOGY GROUP AT BUREAU FOR PLANNING & SUSTAINABILITY
The Community Technology program builds community capacity and champions investments and public policy in a rapidly changing communications technology, utility, and broadband landscape to keep our local communities economically and culturally healthy.
DIGITAL EQUITY ACTION PLAN
The Digital Equity Action Plan (DEAP) outlines a series of operational and policy proposals for public and private agencies, along with nonprofits, in Portland/Multnomah County to advance the cause of digital equity.
Coalition of Digital Equity (C.O.D.E)
The Coalition of Digital Equity (CODE) is a coalition of community organizations interested in raising awareness about digital equity barriers, and developing solutions to bridge the digital divide. More information coming soon.
MULTNOMAH COUNTY LIBRARY
The library focuses on the communities most impacted by racism and systems of oppression to empower them to learn and create.
DIGITUNITY
Digitunity is a national organization working to eliminate the technology gap by providing a variety of resources and programs to people in need of access to devices and tools to help them thrive in todays society.
NATIONAL DIGITAL INCLUSION ALLIANCE
National Digital Inclusion Alliance advances digital equity by supporting community programs and equipping policymakers to act.
XFINITY INTERNET ESSENTIALS
Xfinity Internet Essentials proves low cost, reliable high speed internet for low-income households.
RESOURCES FOR DEVICES
Government Benefit Program members are eligible for Free Cell Phone Service through Life Wireless or if you are in need of an affordable phone or laptop please visit Free Geek's eBay Store.
*If Free Geek does not have the inventory for free machines please apply through PC's For People*
RESOURCES FOR INTERNET OR BROADBAND
The Universal Service Administrative Company offers a search tool to help you find an Affordable Connectivity Program company in your area.
Search for a list of Affordable Connectivity providers
CONTACT US
For additional information or assistance contact us via email: computerfriends@freegeek.org
Free Geek offers a series of curriculum centered around technology education.