What is the reSTART program?
The reSTART program provides computers at below retail cost for people receiving social assistance.
These affordable computers help people to access education, find jobs, or even start and manage new small businesses.
Who can get a computer from the reSTART program?
The program is open to any resident of Canada who receives financial support from programs like these:
- Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP)
- Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP)
- Ontario Works (OW)
- Old Age Security (OAS)
- Employment Insurance (EI)
- Veterans Affairs Canada
- Workers’ Compensation from the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB)
Social service workers can order reSTART computers on behalf of their clients.
Anyone can sponsor the purchase of a reSTART computer for someone who qualifies for the program. If there is a specific person you would like to buy a computer for, simply choose the sponsor option in the application form.
Please review the rest of the information on this page before contacting us with questions. This helps our staff devote more time to building reSTART computers.
What kinds of computers are available, and what do they cost?
The computers provided by reBOOT Canada have been refurbished and all previous data has been removed. We ensure that the computers are in good working order. The computers may show signs of wear, but they have been tested and should provide years of trouble-free service.
All computers come with a 90 day hardware warranty. The warranty does not cover accidental damage. All sales are final for computers provided through the reSTART program.
Both laptop and desktop computers are offered in standard and premium packages. All reSTART computers include:
- Windows 10 Professional, fully licensed
- Libre Office, a cost-free and compatible alternative to Microsoft Office
| MINIMUM SPECIFICATIONS | DESKTOPS | LAPTOPS | ||
| Standard | Premium | Standard | Premium | |
| Processor | i3 or equivalent | i5 or equivalent | i3 or equivalent | i5 or equivalent |
| RAM | 4GB | 8GB | 4GB | 8GB |
| Hard Drive | 120GB SSD or 500GB HDD | 240GB SSD or 1TB HDD |
120GB SSD | 240GB SSD |
| Monitor Size | 19″ | 21″ | 13″ or larger ** | 13″ or larger ** |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi + Ethernet | Wi-Fi | ||
| Speakers | External provided if no internal | Internal | ||
| Input Devices | Wired keyboard and mouse | Built-in keyboard and trackpad | ||
| Webcam | Included | Included | ||
| PRICE | $165 (incl. 13% HST) | $295 (incl. 13% HST) | $195 (incl. 13% HST) | $295 (incl. 13% HST) |
| Shipping In Ontario | $45 (includes 13% HST) | $25 (includes 13% HST) | ||
| Shipping Outside Ontario | $49 to $109 plus applicable taxes | $39 to $69 plus applicable taxes | ||
| Pickup Locations | Computers can be picked up at reBOOT Canada locations in Toronto or Peterborough, ON | |||
** = Larger monitor sizes for laptop models are provided based on availability and recipients’ needs.
How do I know which package is the right fit?
This is an excellent question. A good fit depends on a combination of your digital skill level, the activities you plan to use the computer for, where you will use the computer, and any health challenges that may affect how you use the computer.
| STEP 1: PORTABILITY | Desktop | Laptop |
| Where to use it | Desk or table only | Anywhere |
| Hard drive storage included | Up to 1TB hard drive | Up to 240GB solid state drive |
| Screen size | 19″ standard / 21″ premium | 13″ to 15″ |
| Good for accessibility devices like large monitors, special keyboards, etc. | Yes | No |
| STEP 2: POWER | Standard | Premium |
| Your skill level using computers | Beginner | Intermediate + |
| How many programs you use at the same time | 1 or 2 | 3 or more |
| Good for large software like video editing or professional accounting | No | Yes |
Not sure which type of computer is the best fit? That’s ok, it’s a confusing topic with a lot of moving parts. Just select the “I need help deciding” option on the request form, and one of our team will help you get to the right answer.
Why is the price so low? Is there a catch?
No catch, just people cooperating to help others.
Software licensing for Windows 10 is generously provided by Microsoft.
Most hardware is donated to reBOOT Canada by the general public, institutions, and corporations who want to help.
The cost of acquiring additional hardware to meet demands may also be subsidized in part by our recycling partner, Quantum Lifecycle Partners, and the Toronto Enterprise Fund in partnership with Alterna Savings and Credit Union.
How do I request a computer through the reSTART program?
1. Check our eligibility guidelines and make sure you qualify.
2. Determine what kind of computer you need.
3. Complete the application. We will contact you within 5 business days with any questions.
4. Arrange for payment through your caseworker or directly with our staff. Payments can be made with cash, debit, or credit cards.
5. We will contact you within 7 business days to confirm your computer is ready for pick up or shipment.
Application forms for reSTART computers
It is important that you provide working contact information. If we are unable to contact you within a reasonable period, the computer will be reassigned to the next person in line.