Your Used Computer Can Help Bring Our Communities Together
"Through the Trees" finds homes for computers, laptops, printers, cell phones and flatscreen TV's
Today we donated Sam’s laser printer to our friend Yvette Brooks in Brevard. She and the small staff of her non-profit, Through the Trees, will find someone who needs this printer, such as a student or a person who works from home. But that’s not all. Through the Trees can also help bring internet to their home. This is a common need in our mountain communities.
They also collect and distribute used computers, laptops, cell phones and flat screen TV’s. Their tech specialist makes sure the devices are in good working order before they are matched up with people in our community who have applied to receive them, and who qualify.
I interviewed Yvette so that you can learn about her non-profit and think about what devices you or your business can donate into the community.
Q: Yvette, how did you get the idea for Through the Trees?
A: The pandemic made internet access critical for children learning online and for people suddenly working from home or looking for a new job. But many people in our rural areas don’t have access to technology, the internet and digital literacy training. I created Through the Trees to help change that.
Q: What items do you collect from people?
A: We accept laptops, printers, cell phones and flat screen TV’s.
Q: Do you have guidelines for their operating condition, age, or specific models?
A: No. We love all kinds of technology. We especially love corporate donations. Businesses upgrade their employees’ devices every few years, and we love to receive them. We remove sensitive data, and then quickly turn them around into the community.
Q: What about ink and cords?
A: We accept cords. Ink can be tricky since it’s printer specific and has a shelf life. So we will do our best with these donations. We also accept printer paper.
Q: How can people donate their used devices to you?
A: Donors can call, text, email and message us on Instagram or Facebook. Our email (yvette@throughthetrees.us), phone number (828-351-3972) and mailing address are on our website.
Q: Are these donations tax deductible?
A: Yes, ma’am Everyone gets a thank-you note with our EIN number for tax deduction purposes.
Q: Yvette, how do you distribute these items?
A: They go to eligible low-income families in Transylvania County. The qualifications are the same as for applying for Medicaid and Food Stamps. We’re happy to talk about them with folks one on one, so if you or a friend might qualify, let them know we can help.
We also show families how to apply for Federal benefits that lower their monthly internet costs. And on top of that we offer our Through the Trees Subsidy, which pays $35 towards their internet costs for 6 months.
Anyone who needs a device can contact Through the Trees or complete our Interest Form.
Q: Do you welcome volunteer help?
A: Yes! There’s a lot to do, from spreading awareness to securing funding for our program. Our volunteer video and application form are here.
Q: Do any experiences with Through the Trees stand out to you?
A: The very first family that we helped applied for our Through the Trees Subsidy [see above]. The middle-school daughter was enrolled in Online Learning Path with the county school program because her mom had immunity issues. With no internet at home, she was going to the local business next door to connect with their WiFi. In January in Transylvania County, you don’t want to be going outside to do your school work! We were able to help her have internet service in the safety of her home. After signing our first contract to help this family, we knew we were on the right track.
Deda: Thank you for all the details, Yvette.
Yvette: You’re welcome!
You can learn about Yvette Brooks’ non-profit, see who works with her, learn how to apply to receive devices, and how to apply for help getting internet service — all at their website. I was surprised to find a list of free North Carolina WiFi locations under Free Wi-Fi.
Yvette and her team are working to make technology available to all because they envision “a community that is no longer divided”.
Donate what you can in the way of funding, or by donating your used personal and business computers and other devices. Tell people about Through the Trees. Spread some hope!
Thank you, Yvette and all your staff.
I'm glad you find it so, Margaret. It's some GOOD news! : )
Thanks, Deda. This is very helpful!