Getting tech to those who need it
Donate your laptop, smartphone or other IT to help people in need and provide computers for charity.
Inspired by the need for laptops for remote learning during the pandemic, Oxford IT Bank is like a food bank for tech, getting old devices that are sitting on a shelf somewhere cleaned up and passed on to those who would benefit from them.
We are now part of Getting Oxfordshire Online. Together we have provided more than 4000 devices to help people in need since we started in 2021!
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Making a difference
Learn more about Getting Oxfordshire Online.
How it works
Donate
The most useful are laptops up to 12 years old, which can be upgraded to run the latest operating systems, and smartphones or tablets running Android 8 or iPhone 5S or newer.
Note that phones and tablets need releasing from accounts - check out pre-donation notes on preparing your device here.
We can handle minor repairs like broken screens, dead batteries, missing chargers, so do get in touch if you're not sure if we can use the device.
Finally, we'd be grateful for any money you'd like to donate which supports our operations, buys parts etc. See this link all the ways you can support Getting Oxfordshire Online including donating funds.
Anybody happy to help with collecting and delivering, this would be appreciated too to speed up the service!
Wipe and Spruce Up
First priority is to ensure all data is securely removed before passing on to a new home.
Then software is refreshed with a modern operating system, as well as possibly fresh hard disks etc to ensure a good experience.
If you're able to help with electrical repairs, such as failed screen hinges, cracked power sockets or unreliable motherboards, we'd be delighted to hear from you.
On to good causes
We work with local charities, with all eligible laptops, smartphones and tablets going to Getting Oxfordshire Online, helping families and vulnerable people. Desktops and accessories can help replace outdated equipment in charities.
I would be pleased to hear from any other groups able to pass IT to those in need and support them with getting the most from it.
Devices such as desktops which are tricky for organisations to distribute but still useful for homes are advertised online at low prices, helping those with limited funds, and bringing some money in for repairs and parts.
Whether you want to donate, help out or would like to ask for donations, please email Ben and the volunteer team at hello@oxforditbank.com
If you are wondering who you are entrusting your old computer to, here's my LinkedIn Profile: www.linkedin.com/in/bentuppen/
Currently Supporting
Fantastic charities helping communities and vulnerable people get online to access education and employment.
Getting Oxfordshire Online is a partnership started by Oxfordshire Community Foundation, with Aspire in Oxford, SOFEA in Didcot and Bicester Green working together to provide refurbishment, support and connectivity to help reduce digital poverty across the county. You can find out more here.
Get Involved!
A reminder of all the ways you can help
Donations
Laptops or tablets up to 12 years old (pre-donation checklist here), or money at our new JustGiving page!
Collection and Distribution
Collecting and delivering in the Oxford area.
Repair Skills
"Repair Cafe" skills for electrical repairs such as replacing worn out power sockets
Recipient Organisations
Schools or community organisations who can pass equipment to those in need and help them get set up.
I would also be delighted to hear from any others doing similar IT distribution in the Oxford area. I hope we can work together to help more people.
Thank you
To everyone who's donated a device and spread the word, and especially to these who've supported with partnership, funds and expertise.
Volunteers, space, fundraising for devices and lots of expertise getting started!
Funding, team, space and support with Getting Oxfordshire Online
Funding for parts, startup expenses and equipment
Not in Oxford?
If you're not local, here are other people you could contact if you would like to donate equipment or ask for help.