 Tech Exchange, an organization that envisions a digitally connected Bay Area where everyone has the technology resources they need to thrive, announced today that it has been awarded a $20,000 grant from PayPal’s Tech for Good Program. The grant will be used to support Tech Exchange’s Tech for All solution – designed to supply everything needed to support digitally disconnected residents with technology access. Through the Tech for All solution, each household receives a free refurbished computer, digital skills resources, free tech support, and assistance accessing affordable $10/month Internet. “Digital access is still a barrier for far too many Bay Area residents.,” says Seth Hubbert, Executive Director of Tech Exchange. “Approximately 1.5 million Bay Area residents lack access to broadband and a home computer; we appreciate PayPal’s engagement and support to help close this inequitable divide.” Support for Tech for All was made possible through PayPal’s Tech for Good Program which launched in 2018 and leverages the funds the company receives for retired tech assets to benefit nonprofits and schools around the world. “Tech for Good helps us extend the positive impact we seek to have as a company and actively contribute to and strengthen communities around the world,” said Julie Vennewitz-Pierce, Director of PayPal Gives. “We’re proud to leverage the funds we receive from our retired technology to allow nonprofits and schools to invest in technology that will help advance their mission. The organizations that we are supporting through the Tech for Good program help build stronger, more inclusive communities that enable greater opportunity for individuals and families. Tech Exchange is a great example of this effort, and we’re pleased to support their work.” ABOUT TECH EXCHANGE Tech Exchange is driven to provide digital equity throughout the Bay Area by equipping underserved community members with affordable Internet connection, digital literacy skills, and refurbished computers coupled with free tech support. These digital inclusion services empower all individuals with the fundamental ability to access online education, employment, health care, financial services, and public resources as means with which to improve and enhance their lives. Over the last 25 years, Tech Exchange has distributed over 50,000 refurbished computers to underserved Bay Area community members, provided over 10,000 instructional hours of training, and offered 200 youth technical internships, all while diverting over 1,000 tons of e-waste from landfills. Currently, Tech Exchange serves over 4,000 households a year with digital inclusion services, with programming active in Alameda, Contra Costa, San Francisco, and Santa Clara counties. ABOUT PAYPAL GIVES Funded by corporate contributions, PayPal Gives is one of the ways PayPal steps forward to further our social impact objectives and actively support our communities across the globe. PayPal Gives supports and amplifies PayPal employees’ efforts to improve the neighborhoods in which they live and work through charitable giving, volunteering and fundraising. Photo ©2020 Hasain Rasheed Photography
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