CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) – Not everyone has easy access to the Internet. However, a non-profit organization seeks to “bridge any digital divide” for people from disadvantaged backgrounds.

“PCs for People” was at the Champaign Public Library to distribute computers on Wednesday. About fifty people were able to take a computer home.

“We have partners who, if they have computers that they’re looking to get rid of, we recycle them, refurbish them, and give them a second life for people who need them,” said Khayla Perkins, head of community impact for the Cook County region.

One person who signed up for a laptop was Deborah Johnson-Elam.

“It’s time for me to learn how to use one,” Johnson-Elam said.

Johnson-Elam said she heard about the event from her sister-in-law and would like to get a computer so she can ‘practice basic computer skills’, while also being able to communicate more easily. with his nine years. -former grandson.

PCs for People has distributed more than 5,000 computers statewide in the past three months and plans to distribute 10,000 more by the end of the year, according to Perkins.

Anyone who receives SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, Federal Public Housing Assistance, Veterans Pension Benefit Program, or whose household income falls below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines is eligible to register for a computer.

The next event in central Illinois is scheduled for April 23 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Oreana Elementary School.

You can register hereand the last day to register is April 20.