tkt8763-01: donated computers

["Carraway, Elizabeth" <ECarraway@hinds.cc.ms.us>]

I have reviewed the web site and posted my response regarding donated
computers.  I worked with group homes and training programs for foster
children and homeless teens and we believed that donated computer equipment
would be better than no equipment.  We did receive a couple of excellent
systems.  However, we received tons of junk because businesses wanted to get
rid of old equipment, maybe get a tax deduction, or maybe just feel like
they weren't throwing the stuff away.  We spent money, but more importantly,
a lot of time and energy on the part of staff attempting to utilize the
donated equipment.  The young people were often frustrated because of
problems and the limited capacity of the equipment.  Grant writing turned
out to be a much easier way to obtain quality equipment (and believe me,
obtaining funds through grants is no easy task).  If there is no other way,
and the equipment is appropriate and workable, donated equipment may be a
blessing.  It could also be a curse.
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