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November 25, 2024

Community Spotlight presented by Crosbie

Building a Sustainable Legacy with Computers for Schools Newfoundland and Labrador

Since 1993, Computers for Schools Newfoundland and Labrador (CFS-NL), federally funded by ISED, has been a leader in providing refurbished technology to schools, non-profits, and libraries, while also supporting youth employment and reducing e-waste in landfills. 

This shared commitment to sustainability and the community is what led CFS-NL to become a key partner for the 2025 Canada Games. The group will be providing a $400,000 contribution in refurbished computer and IT equipment to the Games. This multi-Games partnership, which extends through to the 2031 Canada Games, will not only support the 2025 event but will also create a sustainable impact for years to come.

"This partnership has highlighted our organization more than it ever has in the past 31 years, says CFS-NL Chair of the Board, Allan Miller. It’s incredible how it came about—so organically—and personally, I think it will just be a legacy that will continue for Games right on into the future.”

After announcing the partnership last month, Miller says he’s already noticed the impact it is making. 

"This partnership with the 2025 Canada Games sets a great example for what other companies can do. It’s showing that by donating used technology, businesses can be part of something bigger. We’re already seeing more companies step forward and want to be part of this effort to reduce waste and give back."

At the heart of the organization’s mission is a dedication to sustainability and community empowerment. By refurbishing donated computers and diverting electronic waste from landfills, CFS-NL has distributed nearly 70,000 computers and provided over 155,000 hours of hands-on training to students and graduates. Their efforts have kept more than 2 million pounds of e-waste out of Newfoundland and Labrador landfills—an achievement that resonates with the 2025 Canada Games sustainability commitment.

"Back in 1993, there was a need to find a way to refurbish computers and divert them from landfills. What started slowly has now grown across all provinces and territories. Schools were always in big demand for computers, and we were more than happy to provide them. This program truly began as a grassroots initiative," added Miller. 

Computers for Schools has been able to expand its programming beyond the classroom and help other organizations in need of support. 

"We work with non-profit organizations like the Association for New Canadians, providing them with the technology they need to help newcomers adjust to life in Newfoundland and Labrador."

“We are excited to see how this collaboration with the Canada Games will unfold, not just for the 2025 Games, but for the communities that will benefit long after the athletes and fans have gone home."

Leading up to and during the 2025 Canada Games,  the Host Society is committed to making these the greenest Games yet by focusing on three key areas: Energy and Climate, Circularity and Waste, and Natural Regeneration. 

Through these efforts, the 2025 Canada Games aims to minimize the environmental impact, raise awareness about sustainability, and showcase innovative solutions for making large-scale sporting events more environmentally friendly. Partnering with Computers for Schools Newfoundland and Labrador is the latest step in ensuring the Canada Games leaves a lasting legacy within the community.

Donate now at www.computersforschoolsnl.ca/donate-technology