Families and individuals in need now have access to free refurbished computers thanks to a partnership between Cochrane Cochrane Family & Community Support Services (FCSS) and local business Cochrane Computers.
Ron Sullivan, owner of Cochrane Computers, has donated 18 refurbished computers to FCSS. “My customers bring in old computers for recycling, and we put new solid-state drives in them, install Linux, and give them away,” says Sullivan.
The computers are available to eligible individuals and families through FCSS. To apply, residents can book an appointment with a resource worker. Families with children under 18 can call the Family Resource Network at 403-851-2265, while other individuals, families, seniors, and rural residents can contact FCSS at 403-851-2250.
Eligibility requirements include being a Level 1 or 2 Connect Card holder (or eligible for one) and providing a brief description of how a computer would support their daily life.
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Sullivan says his motivation for the initiative is simple. “I don’t like throwing things away that work,” he explains.
The refurbished computers run on Linux, a secure operating system well-suited for everyday tasks like schoolwork, job searching, and staying connected.
Sullivan has lived in Cochrane his whole life and is happy to give back to the community. “I just try to do what I can,” he says.
For those in need of a computer, FCSS encourages reaching out soon, as availability may be limited.