Digital Inclusion

Intersectional risk factors should not be barriers to developing essential skills and accessing services. Since 1993, the Computers for Schools Plus (CFS+) program has delivered, at little or no cost, more than 1.7 million computers across Canada.

The CFS+ program provides classrooms and communities with the technology needed to participate in and contribute to today’s society – empowering Canadians through digital inclusion.

Corporate donors provide a third of the technology for the program. Organizations and individuals can donate technology to CFS+ and help provide tools and access for those who need them.

 

Schools

Providing technology for learners.

“I work with kids who have learning disabilities and assistive technology helps bridge the gap and gives them the additional support they need to learn. I hear stories when I run into teachers; they’re overwhelmed with the difference a computer can make. But schools often don’t have enough devices to give each student dedicated hardware. CFS gives devices a second life and helps us meet that challenge.” — Lana

Libraries and not-for-profit organizations

Improving access to computers in critical digital hubs.

These locations are where citizens use technology to access online resources and services, compete more effectively for jobs, and connect with each other & the world.

“I was overwhelmed. I thought they were joking, actually, when they said that this computer was for me, so I was feeling pretty grateful. When I first got it, I used it to search for jobs, send resumes… I used it to send pictures of my kids back home to my family. Even watching videos with my kids, it was a bonding experience for us. And I still use it — every day at work. I probably wouldn’t have my job if it weren’t for that computer.” — Kayla

“The computers help ease the transition for newcomers and help them move forward in their resettlement. Technology is such an integral part to all of our lives. For everything we do now, we use a computer. When we can say ‘here’s a computer,’ we’re really allowing them to function on a level our society is expecting. And it goes beyond that. It’s a symbol and a gesture that allows them to feel that ‘Yes. I am a Canadian.’” — Kate

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Indigenous communities

Contributing to youth education programs.

“We wanted to do something for First Nations youth that was different than the usual summer programming and the idea for this robotics program was born. So we planned and did a pilot, and the program really took off. The equipment to run this program is always a challenge because it’s on the road and it often needs to be replaced. When we reached out to CFS, they were excited about the program we were running and they’ve been a tremendous help since. In total, we’ve trained over 400 youth and it wouldn’t have happened without Computers for Schools.” — Joan