Are you looking for a free computer for low income people? We all understand that not everyone is able to afford a computer since the devices are costly. However, not being able to afford a laptop does not mean that you cannot own one. Computers are important devices that everyone should own in the 21st century. I suppose the question flowing in your mind is where you can get a free computer.
Well, there are several programs in the US that provide free or low-cost computers to individuals and families in need. If you are from a humble background, you can be lucky to get one if you apply. Such programs receive funding from the government agencies, NGOs, and technology companies.
In most cases, you must show proof that you are from a poor background. We have people who can pretend to have no money yet they are well off and only want to get free things in a fraudulent manner. You will learn what you require to acquire a free laptop shortly. Let me give you the various ways you can get a free computer for your day to day usage.
Government Programs Offering Free Computers
The government of the US is actively committed to assisting people from low backgrounds with free computers to use for their everyday lives. We have two main ways you can get a free laptop from the US government. They include the following.
State and Local Programs
We have so many states and local governments that have programs offering free computers to give children advanced skills for their education. Again, regular citizens with low income can apply to get free computers. You can see if your local government gives free or low-cost computers to residents and apply for one.
Non-Profit Organizations Offering Free Computers
Apart from the government offering free computers to low income people, we also have non-governmental organizations where you can get a free computer for low income if eligible persons. They include the following.
National Digital Inclusion Alliance (NDIA)
The National Digital Inclusion Alliance (NDIA) is a non-profit organization that aims in bridging the digital divide in society across the United States. So many benefit from the organization all year round to ensure they grow their digital know how.
Usually the organization works to offer free internet to use with your computer. They may also give free computers to those eligible. Apart from offering free computers and affordable internet, the organization also contacts training activities to create awareness about digital skills. They also provide digital inclusion funds where beneficiaries can spend them to acquire computers.
Computers for Kids
Computers for Kids is a program which provides low-income students with free access to technology. The initiative works towards bridging the digital divide thus making sure all children have access to computers that assist them to learn. It is a very nice initiative that ensures that all children have equal opportunities to learn and do well in life in the 21st century.
How Do Computers for Kids Work?
The program works with the assistance of a network of schools, community centers, and certain non-profit organizations to see that it succeeds. Usually, these people work tirelessly and keenly to identify students who can benefit from free computers and distribute the devices to them.
In most cases, the computers are refurbished. That means the devices were used before and serviced to fit usage. That happens by replacing worn out parts, to make the machines work efficiently. We also have new machines from some donors and especially technology companies and individuals who commit themselves to assist children develop technologically.
What are the Benefits of Computers for Kids?
There are numerous benefits of free computers. They include the following.
- The kids improve their school performance.
- There is increased digital literacy as kids grow knowing computer operations.
- There is increased access to information as long as the computers link to internet sources.
- The free computers prepare kids for the future
PCs for People
Pcs for people have been around for a long time and have given thousands of computers to various needy people. They usually give refurbished computers for free or at discounted prices to eligible persons. They usually pick up waste information of electronics from government offices or educational centers and refurbish them. You can get a free computer for low income people from the NGO as long as you present documents to prove that you are in need.
Technology Companies to Get a Free Computer For Low Income People
We also have technology companies who offer free computers to those eligible from unfortunate families. There are various ways the companies give free computers.
First, the companies can give out refurbished computers, whereby the companies repair damaged devices then give them out for free to the needy people. You can also get a computer from such companies at discounted prices.
One thing you need to know is that the devices are usually in good condition and can work as new ones. Again , the devices come with warranties in case something happens. Therefore, if you thought that computers are low quality, then you are wrong about that.
Examples of such companies that give refurbished computers include Apple, Microsoft and Lenovo.
How to Qualify for a Free Computer
As mentioned earlier you must prove that you are from a humble background to receive a free computer for low income people. There are various ways you can qualify whereby the specific eligibility criteria for qualifying to receive a free computer can vary from one organization to the other. That means you may qualify in one organization not in the other.
There are various factors that free computer programs put into account when giving out the free devices. They include the following.
- Income. Many free computer programs prioritize low income when giving out free computers. You should provide proof to show that you are eligible to get a free laptop. It is obvious to note that people with low income cannot afford computers since they focus on basic needs such as food, shelter, and clothing. Most low income families may not even cater for all their basic needs.
- Household Size. The number of people in your family may make you qualify or not qualify. If you have many dependents, an organization may consider you first before those with less dependents. That is because in many cases, there is a direct correlation between low income and many dependents.
- Location. Where you live may determine whether you will get a computer for free or not. Most organizations focus on places that have been left behind in terms of developments. If you live in underserved areas, you may have the highest preference compared to the needy people in developed regions
- Age or ability status. Your age may become a limiting factor when it comes to receiving a computer for free. There are organizations that only target children when offering free computers. For example, Computers for Kids focuses on schooling children to assist them develop digital skills and excel in their education. We also have programs that concentrate on seniors only. Additionally people with disability may receive favor in certain organizations compared to people without disability.
Common Eligibility Requirements to Get a Computer for Free
Various eligibility requirements to get a free device include the following.
- You should have a low Income. Low income qualifies you for a free device in many organizations. As mentioned, you must show that you have low income for you to get help. That means you should produce documents for proof.
- You should be a U.S. citizen or legal resident. Organizations and government agencies giving free devices require you to have proof that you are a US citizen. That way, only the rightful people can benefit.
- Show that you need a Computer: You must show that you really need a computer so that only those that need it can apply. Being a person from a low background is not enough to get a computer. If you are a student, a healthcare worker, or a freelancer who uses computers, you can easily get one.
- You should not be currently owning a computer. You must not already own a computer. If you have a computer, then there will be no need to apply for another one. It is just to let those who have none to apply.
How to Apply for a computer free of charge
As mentioned, the application process for free computers varies from one program to another. In most cases, you only need to log into websites of these companies which can vary depending on the organization or agency giving out the program benefits.
Generally, you will need to provide the following information to ensure that your application goes through.
- Personal Information. These include your name, physical address, mobile phone number, and email address.
- Income details. You need to have proof of income. Information such as tax returns or pay stubs is important
- Household Information. You must provide details concerning your house. It includes details about the number of people in your household as well their ages.
- The need for a computer. You need to provide a statement explaining why you require a computer. The statement must show truth in it or you will not succeed in your application.
- Details about benefit programs that you participate in. There are various assistance programs that can qualify you to participate in a free computer giveaway. Examples of such assistance programs include Medicaid and SNAP.
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Bottom Line
Getting a free computer is easy if you have the necessary qualifications. There are various avenues you can use to get a free desktop or laptop computer ranging from government agencies to non-governmental organizations. All you need to do is possess the necessary documents and you are good to go. People from low income families have high chances of getting free laptops or desktop computers. Above all, you must be a legal citizen or resident of the US.