Two million refurbished devices distributed to Canadians in need since the program’s inception
Ottawa – François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, highlighted that the Computers for Schools Plus (CFS+) program is celebrating 30 years of investments in digital inclusion. The program provides refurbished computer equipment to recipients in communities across Canada and helps young Canadians gain meaningful work experience to develop the skills needed to participate in the digital economy.
Since 1993, the program has helped reduce the environmental impact of electronic waste by extending the useful life of electronic equipment. CFS+ also helps bridge the digital divide, supporting access to technology and connectivity by providing two million computers and other digital devices to schools, libraries, not-for-profit organizations, Indigenous communities and eligible low-income Canadians.
Over the past three decades, through its internship program, CFS+ also provided 8,500 young Canadians with paid, practical, on-the-job experience in refurbishment centres across Canada, giving them valuable work experience that helped them develop advanced digital skills for the job market.
The Government of Canada continues to support communities across Canada by providing the necessary technology to help those Canadians most in need access the digital world and providing much-needed digital skills training for youth to help them enter today’s job market, while advancing its environmental priorities.
“Building a more resilient, sustainable and competitive economy means helping all Canadians succeed. This is why our government is building a strong workforce ready for the workplace of tomorrow and helping close the digital divide by providing refurbished electronic devices to Canadians in need, which in turn reduces electronic waste. Investing in youth and helping Canadians get online is an essential part of our efforts to support an increasingly digital economy. We are proud that CFS+ has been an important contributor to this effort for 30 years now.” – François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry