If you’re like most households in 2025, there’s probably a box—or two—of old tech gathering dust in your closet, basement, or garage. And while tossing it all in the dumpster might seem like the easiest option, it’s definitely not the most economical or environmentally responsible one.

Here at Hackforge, we often receive generous offers of old equipment from community members looking to give their gear a second life. And we’re grateful! Whenever possible, we put these donations to use in our programming, helping others in the community build skills such as:

  • Hard drive wiping and data sanitation
  • Installing Linux and open-source software
  • Basic hardware maintenance and diagnostics

Donated machines that are still in working condition—or can be restored—are also used during workshops, especially by folks who don’t have their own computers.

But sometimes, even with all of these uses, we just have too much stuff. In these cases, we donate the excess to Computers for Kids.

Computers for Kids collects thousands of pieces of tech per year, all of which is reviewed by volunteers.
Inside the Computers for Kids offices (from Computers for Kids Facebook Page)

A registered charity since 2004, Computers for Kids collects donated computers and e-waste from businesses and the general public. Their mission is twofold:

  1. Increase technology access for children and families in Windsor-Essex, and
  2. Keep e-waste out of landfills through responsible reuse and recycling.

Usable machines are refurbished and distributed to children in need, while other components are responsibly recycled. In fact, 66% of Computers for Kids’ local program funding comes from e-waste recycling—a testament to the power of sustainable practices.

As you might be able to tell, we’re big fans of this group. So now we’re making it official! Hackforge has formally partnered with Computers for Kids, so you can feel confident in knowing that any donations to us will – in one way or another – be used to make a positive impact in our community.  

Donations can be made during any of our on-site events, or by appointment. If you’re unable to make it to our Downtown Windsor location, let us know—we’ll do our best to arrange a pickup.

And of course, we still encourage direct donations to Computers for Kids! There are five locations in Windsor-Essex to choose from: 

  • Computers for Kids warehouse: 4150 Sandwich St., Windsor
  • Lally Southpoint Ford, 414 Rocky Rd., Leamington
  • Harrow & South Colchester Arena: 243 McAffee St., Harrow
  • Joe Meloche Ford: 55 Sandwich St. N., Amherstburg
  • Essex Centre Sports Complex: 60 Fairview Ave. W., Essex

Hackforge and Computers for Kids accept a wide range of electronic devices, regardless of age or working condition:

Donating old, broken, and disused technology keeps it out of landfills and supports your local community.
  • Computer monitors and TVs
  • Desktop and laptop computers
  • Computer accessories (hard drives, keyboards, mice, circuit boards, add-on cards, etc.)
  • Office equipment (copiers, scanners, printers, fax machines, typewriters, etc.)
  • Communication equipment (all manner of phones, answering machines, pagers, etc.)
  • Stereo equipment (receivers, speakers, EQs, etc.)
  • Video players and projectors
  • Cameras and accessories (digital, film, video, flashes, etc.)

Every device you donate supports hands-on education, youth empowerment, and environmental stewardship. Together, Hackforge and Computers for Kids are helping ensure that old tech creates new opportunities.

Got a donation? Get in touch with us or come to an upcoming event!

Let’s make your old tech part of Windsor-Essex’s future.