CHICAGO — Access to internet and a computer has become more important than ever due to the COVID-19 pandemic forcing online schooling and people to work from home.
Gov. J.B. Pritzker announced Wednesday a statewide initiative to deploy computer devices for low-income residents across the state.
Through a partnership with PCs for People, the state of Illinois will launch a statewide network to deploy refurbished computers, digital literacy programming and workforce development.
“The new Connect Illinois Computer Equity Network aims to put computers and other mobile devices into the hands of Illinois residents — assisting more families with access to high speed internet that is essential for e-learning, remote work, telehealth and more,” said a release from the Governor’s Office.
To help expand that digital access across the state, Pritzker issued a call to action to public, private and philanthropic sectors to donate used equipment.
“Today we are kicking this off by providing the first 20,000 devices to families in need across the state,” said Pritzker. “As we grow the program, it’s businesses and philanthropists that will make this program successful.
“When your upgrade cycle gets renewed and your old technology no longer fits the needs of your company, you can donate it, and it will be upgraded for use by a family in need.”
The network is already set to deploy at least 20,000 refurbished computers annually for Illinois families.
For more information on how to recycle technology or to apply for an upgraded device, visit Illinois.gov/computerequitynetwork.
