Dukinfield-based ZenTec Network Solutions continue their campaign to donate vital tech gear to those who need it most.

The campaign has seen the firm donate no less than 42 devices to eight charities and community groups worth more than £6,000 in the last two months alone.

As previously reported, the tech team launched their campaign during the pandemic, refurbishing old laptops and tablets to provide devices for children leaning at home.

Back then parents were struggling to purchase new devices for their children to take part in online lessons, and not all schools had the facilities to provide a laptop to every student. 

ZenTec Technical Director Mike Brooks and Business Development Director Cerid Grimshaw set out to do everything they could to help reduce the digital divide so starkly highlighted during lockdown.

ZenTec Network Solutions is an IT support and solutions company and had the knowledge and skills to be able to refurbish laptops.

Before they knew it, people were calling and emailing to donate their old devices, some even posting their donations from across the country.

The appeal has steadily widened from helping schools to wider community groups and organisations.

Recent recipients include the 3rd Newton scout group. The group stated: “The laptops will have a massive impact for around 70 young people within the local community of Newton. We are based in the Scout Hut on Cartwright Street, Newton, Hyde and our young people are aged between six and 17 with groups split into the Beavers, Cubs, Scouts, and Explorer sections. 

“We have several leaders that give up their time each week to hold these sessions and  organise and run trips and camps every year. 

“These laptops will enable all our young people to research subjects that they are learning about to help with badge work. It will also enable them to complete digital based badges that have not been accessible before.”

For more information about local scout groups visit https://www.gmescouts.org.uk/join 

As a result of this donation, two other scout groups (1st Millbrook and 7th Manchester scout group) reached out and have received eight laptops as a result.

Another group to benefit is ‘We Mind the Gap’ which offer programmes for underprivileged people, helping them prepare for the workplace. The donation will help those who otherwise would not have no access to digital resources:

Another charity, Career Connect, received six laptops and four phones.

In addition, the Haughton Green Centre has received a donation of laptops and a printer to help deliver community programmes such as IT training sessions, Creative Digital workshops and to provide Zoom conference facilities for 1-2-1 health consultations. 

For more details or to get involved with volunteering at the Haughton Green Centre you can call 0161 336 1905 or email info@hgcentre.co.uk 

Similarly, Ashton’s Infinity Initiatives, needed tech for many age groups. They provide a community café - with a ‘pay what you can’ scheme, counselling, and migrant support. They will use ZenTec’s donation of a laptop, five phones and a PlayStation 3, with 17 games for their humanitarian efforts.

More donations continue apace but if you can help the company further they would be grateful for donations which can be refurbished. Contact them on 0161 359 3986 or email donations@zentecns.co.uk 

You can also donate through GoFundMe at www.zentecns.co.uk  

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