Kitchener reviving old technology to better connect community
Posted Sep 26, 2025 09:43:05 AM.
Last Updated Sep 26, 2025 11:15:18 AM.
What started as a small idea has turned into a city-wide initiative, with Kitchener looking to better connect the local community with the reliable technology they need, all from old, unused city devices.
It’s a push for sustainability and in-need community members through the city’s new Computer Recycling Program.
The initiative would see unused technological devices given to city staff in waves, wiped of data, refurbished, and distributed to people throughout the city who don’t have access to a reliable device of their own.
It said this would better help the community in finding new jobs, attending classes, or simply giving them the opportunity to reach out to loved ones.
“This is a great example of how innovation and compassion can come together to serve our community,” said Kitchener Mayor Berry Vrbanovic. “By making technology accessible, Kitchener is helping bridge the digital divide and empower community members with the tools they need to thrive.”
The idea itself stems from Councillor Paul Singh, who was looking for a way to better connect the community, all while supporting regional growth, education, and job creation.
“This initiative proves that small changes can lead to big community impact,” he said. “It’s a smart, sustainable way to give back, and I’m proud to see it continue to grow.”
The initiative comes in partnership with The Working Centre, which is helping to distribute the devices at a reduced rate, even using them in their own facilities to help support independent workstations for employment, education, and other various online resources.
Over the past year, the city stated that more than 250 devices, including laptops, computers, monitors, printers, and projectors, have been refurbished through the program.
“There is a huge need for affordable technology in Kitchener. Our partnership with the City of Kitchener is addressing that,” said Charles McColm, Project Manager of Computer Recycling at the Working Centre. “This program benefits the City, but the individual stories show the true impact.”
He went on to discuss the story of a local woman who was returning to the city for education and received a computer through the program.
“She just completed her first year of school. Affordable technology made that possible for her.”
The teams involved in the program are continuing their work in batches, accepting rounds of devices from the city to The Working Centre. They’re set to continue with the latest wave through the fall.
