The Need for Service
Access to technology is no longer a luxury—it's a necessity. However, millions of Americans still lack the essential digital tools needed for work, education, and daily life. The Nonprofit Refurbishers Network plays a crucial role in bridging this gap by providing affordable, high-quality refurbished technology to underserved communities across the country.
According to a 2023 report from the U.S. Census Bureau, approximately 7% of U.S. households do not have a computer at home, and an even larger percentage lacks consistent access to high-speed internet. The digital divide disproportionately impacts lower-income households, with around 41% of adults in households earning less than $30,000 a year not owning a desktop or laptop computer.
Cost remains the number one barrier preventing many families from acquiring the technology they need. For lower-income households, affordability is a critical factor that determines whether or not they can keep up with the demands of modern life. Without access to digital devices, people are left behind in education, job opportunities, healthcare access, and civic participation.
Digital Skills are Essential for Employment
According to a study conducted by Burning Glass Technologies, over 82% of middle-skill jobs require digital skills. This percentage rises to 90% for high-skill jobs. From basic productivity software to more specialized software skills, having access to a computer is often the first step towards gaining the competencies needed for meaningful employment.
PCs for People, one of the members of our network, reports that 58% of the individuals who receive a computer through their programs are unemployed. By equipping them with devices, we provide a lifeline to gain skills, apply for jobs, and engage in remote work opportunities, which are increasingly common across various industries.
Household Impact of Having a Computer and Internet Connection
A household with a computer and internet connection benefits in countless ways—children are able to participate fully in education, adults can pursue online degrees, and families can access healthcare services, including telemedicine. The Pew Research Center has found that 59% of adults in households earning less than $30,000 annually say they rely on their smartphone for internet access because they lack broadband at home, leading to limitations in what they can achieve online.
In addition to education and employment opportunities, having internet and a device at home enhances social participation, access to government services, and even financial management. A household equipped with a computer is better prepared to engage with modern society and achieve upward mobility.
Barriers Beyond Cost
While cost remains a significant barrier, there are other factors contributing to the lack of digital access. A 2022 report by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) found that many Americans cite a perceived lack of need or the absence of digital skills as reasons for not having a computer or internet connection. This underscores the importance of not only providing affordable devices but also of offering digital literacy programs that empower individuals to make effective use of the technology available to them.
The Role of Nonprofit Refurbishers
Nonprofit refurbishers are uniquely positioned to address the digital divide. By making refurbished devices affordable, they offer a tangible solution to millions of Americans who are disconnected. The Nonprofit Refurbishers Network strives to ensure that everyone—regardless of income or background—has the chance to be a part of the digital world.
