The Rotary Club of Chatham is looking for people to donate any old Android smartphones or tablets to be refurbished for children in Guatemalan schools.
The initiative is part of a global literacy project the club is organizing. The phones will be used as e-readers to make educational materials and textbooks available to children, according to a news release.
The Rotary Clubs of Chatham, Chatham Sunrise, Blenheim and Wallaceburg are also in the process of setting up wi-fi stations at these schools.
“Many of us likely have a phone or tablet in our home that we’re not using,” said Tania Sharpe, president of the Chatham club. “This is a great way to give these devices another function, and a very important function at that.”
Sharpe said these devices will be a “lifeline for a better life” because they have few options to improve their literacy skills.
“The citizens of Chatham-Kent are generous people and we’re great at helping out those less fortunate,” said Alysson Storey, past president of the Chatham club. “This not only keeps these devices out of a landfill, it gives these students a chance at an education they would never have otherwise.”
Geek4Cheap, a local computer business, will wipe data off the donated phones and tablets. The devices, including chargers, can be dropped off at the business at 455 Grand Ave. E. in Chatham.
The club encourages other organizations and businesses to support the project in their workplaces. Members of the club can arrange pick-up and delivery if needed. Please call the Rotary Office at 519-354-8300 and we will follow up with you. Thank you!