Bridging the digital divide in WNC - One signal, One device, One neighbor at a time
One signal, One device, One neighbor at a time
One signal, One device, One neighbor at a time
WHAT IS THE DIGITAL DIVIDE?
Today, internet access and a working computer aren't a luxury—they're a necessity.
The "digital divide" is the gap between those who have the devices and internet access needed for daily life and those who are left behind.
This gap is a massive barrier to opportunity. It's the student who can't complete homework because they don't have a laptop. It's the parent who can't apply for a remote job or access telehealth. It's the bright individual who can't learn a new digital skill to get ahead. Right now, millions of Americans, including many in our own community, lack a reliable computer, shutting them out of education and the job market.
How "Through the Trees" Is Helping
We are on the front lines, turning this problem into a solution.
We Make Access Possible: We take donated laptops, phones, and tablets, professionally refurbish them, and put them directly into the hands of people who need them for school and work.
We Make Tech Affordable: For those who don't qualify for a free device, we sell our high-quality, refurbished computers at a price they can actually afford.
We Are Sustainable: Instead of letting valuable technology end up in a landfill, we give it a new purpose, empowering people and protecting the planet at the same time.
Your donation, whether it's an old device or a financial gift, directly bridges this divide. You are giving someone the tool they need to apply for a job, earn a degree, and build a better future for themselves and their family.
EFFECTS OF THE DIGITAL DIVIDE
-
16 million students
in the United States
did not have
access to either
sufficient Internet
connection or an
adequate device
for schoolwork in
the year 2020
-
>1.1 million households in North
Carolina either can’t afford or
can’t access broadband Internet
-
When people don’t use the Internet
frequently, they lack skills needed for
online resources and tools
Check out our resale shop today! We have affordable like-new, refurbished, and used tech available for purchase. All proceeds go back into funding our mission.
Yvette Brooks started this journey in 2020 with the goal of bridging the digital divide in WNC. Do you need a device for school or work? Click here to request one.
Brad is one of our weekly volunteers, helping to repair and refurbish laptops for our programs. Find out how you can get involved here!