In the holiday season, we focus on the joy of giving. While traditional gifts like toys, gadgets, or cozy (ugly) sweaters are cherished, another kind of gift carries transformative power: donating old technology. By giving the gift of opportunity through tech donations, we can profoundly impact individuals, families, and communities while addressing pressing issues like sustainability, environmental protection, and digital equity.
Here’s why donating your old tech is one of the most meaningful ways to give this season.
For most individuals and families in communities across Maine and New England, access to technology is a necessity and a lifeline. A refurbished laptop or tablet can open doors to education, job opportunities, and essential services. Students, for instance, can complete homework, attend online classes, and conduct research—opportunities they might otherwise miss. Similarly, job seekers can create resumes, apply for positions, and participate in virtual interviews, which are crucial steps toward economic stability.
Access to technology also facilitates connection.
Many government services, healthcare providers, and educational programs have moved online, making a device essential for scheduling appointments, accessing telehealth services, or applying for financial aid. By donating old tech, you’re not just giving a device; you’re providing a bridge to opportunity and empowerment.
The digital divide remains a significant barrier for many, as those who need reliable access to technology and the internet are left behind in an increasingly digital world. This gap disproportionately affects low-income households, creating systemic challenges in education, employment, and healthcare.
You become part of the solution by donating your old tech to organizations that refurbish and distribute devices.
Each donated device helps level the playing field, ensuring more people can participate fully in modern life and benefit from its opportunities..
Donating tech is not only impactful for individuals but also the planet. E-waste is one of the fastest-growing waste streams globally, with millions of tons of outdated devices in landfills yearly. These discarded gadgets often contain valuable materials like gold, copper, and aluminum, as well as hazardous substances that can harm the environment if improperly disposed of. Donating your old tech to be refurbished and reused will extend its life cycle, reduce e-waste, and contribute to a more sustainable world.
It’s a gift that benefits both people and the planet.
The holidays are also a time for reflection and renewal. Donating old tech allows you to declutter your home while giving your unused devices a meaningful purpose. Instead of collecting dust in a drawer, your old laptop or smartphone can find a new life in the hands of someone who truly needs it. It’s a simple yet powerful way to transform items you no longer use into tools of empowerment and connection.
When you donate technology, you’re setting an example for others and inspiring a ripple effect of generosity and sustainability. Friends, family, and colleagues may be motivated to follow your lead, amplifying the impact. Organizations like give IT. get IT., make it easy to donate by accepting devices, securely wiping data, and refurbishing them for redistribution. This collective effort benefits recipients and fosters a sense of community and shared purpose.
The true beauty of donating tech is its lasting impact. A refurbished device doesn’t just provide access to technology; it creates opportunities that can change lives. For students, it’s a path to learning and growth. For job seekers, it’s a step toward stability and independence. For communities, it’s a move toward more significant equity and connection.
This holiday season, consider going beyond the usual gifts and donating your old tech. It’s a meaningful way to spread joy, foster opportunity, and contribute to a more sustainable and equitable world. Your old devices may no longer serve you, but they could be the perfect gift for someone else—a gift of opportunity, empowerment, and hope.
Are you a household looking to donate? Find out more here
Want to get your Corporate Team to donate old tech? Learn about how you can do that here.
Happy Holidays!
~ The give IT. get IT. Team
