BC Technology for Learning Society Reaches 150,000 Computer Milestone

BURNABY, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwired - June 17, 2016) - BC Technology for Learning Society has hit its 150,000 computer milestone. The Burnaby-based non-profit has been refurbishing donated computers since 1994 and distributes them to schools, non-profits, and Aboriginal communities across BC through the Computers for Schools program. The role of BC Tech is to facilitate access to the tools that encourage contribution and participation in the digital economy.

BC Tech helps to meet the demand for computers in the classroom and community by delivering the Computers for Schools (CFS) program throughout British Columbia. "Economic growth in all sectors of the economy depends on our ability to adapt, adopt and integrate digital technologies. The BC Technology for Learning Society has been a key partner supporting the Computers for Schools program for over two decades. On behalf of all Canadians, congratulations to Mary-Em Wadding- ton, Executive Director, and her team on reaching this impressive milestone." - The Honourable Navdeep Bains, Canada's Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development.

BC Technology for Learning Society's provides quality work experience to BC students, protects the environment by reducing e-waste, and bridges the digital divide by making technology more accessible for the community as it becomes more and more an integral part of society. "The BC Technology for Learning Society has been breathing new life into used computers for over 20 years and providing them to schools, libraries and non-profit agencies. Today marks a momen- tous milestone with the delivery of our 150,000th computer. Through the generous support of the Federal government and donor organizations, as well as the countless hours of work by staff and volunteers, the Society has made British Columbia a greener place and provided technology to hundreds of thousands of learners in every corner of our province." - Chris Bywater, Chair, BC Technology for Learning Society Board of Directors.

The 150,000 computer milestone illustrates the non-profit's success thus far and inspires BC Tech to continue supporting students and educators across the province. A new initiative announced by the Honourable Navdeep Bains in March 2016 outlines the role Computers for Schools will have within the #WelcomeRefugees initiative to deliver 7,500 computers across Canada. This is a targeted initiative specific to Syrian families, and one that compliments the expanded mandate to support to all new Canadians.

BC Tech has a bright future ahead with many opportunities to expand its reach and continue to help Canadians gain access to computer technology in the years to come. With the continued support and donations of BC residents, BC Tech looks forward to continuing to make technology accessible for all Canadians and to bridge the digital divide. Help BC Tech reach the next 150,000 by donating your old computer today!

CFS, co-founded in 1993 by Industry Canada and the Telecom Pioneers, refurbishes computers and related equipment donated by governments and businesses. These computers are distributed across Canada to schools, libraries and registered not-for-profit learning organizations, and Aboriginal communities. CFS is a national, federal government-led initiative that operates in cooperation with all provinces and territories, the private and volunteer sectors. CFS strives to help students gain greater access to computer technology and provide them with learning tools which enable them to develop necessary skills for participating in today's knowledge-based, global economy.

With funding from Government of Canada.