Access to a reliable device and the internet is now the foundation of modern life in Canada. From applying for jobs and completing schoolwork to accessing healthcare and staying connected with loved ones, the digital world is woven into every part of society. For entire communities, internet infrastructure and a connected, informed population is the bedrock of resilience and opportunity.
Not everyone has the same access. Millions of Canadians still lack affordable devices, home internet, or the skills to leverage them — limiting their ability to fully engage in the economy and civic life. The first barrier is often hardware. New laptops and desktops often cost over $500, putting them out of reach for households already struggling to pay rent, groceries, or transportation.
Extending the Life of Donated Devices
We extend the life of donated computers to address that hardware barrier. A refurbished, affordable device gives people a chance to access education, employment, and essential digital services—opening doors to opportunity.
This year, reBOOT Canada will support nearly 2,000 families nationwide, thanks to donations from individuals and corporations.
How Our Process Works
Since 1995, reBOOT Canada has accepted virtually any Information Technology device—laptops, desktops, servers, tablets, cell phones, monitors, routers, and access points. Devices that can’t be refurbished are recycled responsibly at ISO-certified, Basel Convention–compliant facilities in BC, Alberta, Ontario, and Quebec. Plastics and metals are recovered and reintegrated into manufacturing supply chains, reducing demand for virgin materials.
A device isn’t considered obsolete based on appearance, it’s about performance. Even if a computer still powers on, outdated software, worn components, or failure to meet current standards (like Windows 11 compatibility, network security, or affordable maintenance) can render it unusable. About 35% of donations are viable for refurbishment—but with your help, we aim to improve that rate.
Thanks to our partnership with Quantum Lifecycle, even unrecoverable devices generate revenue to support our refurbishment, redeployment, and digital skills-development programs.
Two Sides of the Same Coin
- Input: Used IT equipment
- Output: Digital equity
We securely wipe all donor data, refurbish devices to high standards, and deploy them through managed programs targeting low-income families, newcomers to Canada, seniors, and other under-served communities.
Extending device life isn’t just about technology, it’s about building a more inclusive and sustainable future, where everyone has access to the digital economy, and waste is minimized.
How You Can Help
Businesses & Organizations
- Fill out the form at rebootcanada.ca/donate or email pickup@rebootcanada.ca
- Arrange free pickup of retired IT assets (some conditions apply)
- Ensure secure transport, storage, and certified data sanitization
- Receive a CRA-compliant donation receipt (if residual value applies)
Individuals
- Fill out the form at rebootcanada.ca/donate
- Drop off gently used computers, monitors, cellphones, and tablets at our Toronto, Vancouver, or Peterborough locations
- Donate other electronics at our partner depots in Ontario and BC
Please note that we can’t accept medical or personal hygiene or automotive devices.
When we extend the life of computers, we don’t just reduce e-waste — we empower people, protect the environment, and strengthen communities. At reBOOT Canada, we’re proud to drive that change — and we invite individuals, businesses, and community partners to join us.