How Free Geek Is Bridging the Digital Divide: Hundreds of Free Laptops Given to Those in Need?
It’s surprising but true: thousands of people in Multnomah County don’t have a computer and even more lack access to the internet. This lack of digital resources makes it hard for many to keep up in today’s tech-driven world.
This past weekend, Comcast and the Mount Hood Cable Regulatory Commission made a major move to bridge this gap with the help of Free Geek, a local nonprofit dedicated to providing technology access to underserved communities.
Comcast and the commission have announced a $2 million investment in providing free internet access to students, families, veterans, and other individuals in need. They are even building out areas to ensure that these services can reach more people. This is not the first time they’ve supported this cause—last year, they made the same $2 million donation to Free Geek.
“We know how important it is for people to have access to digital skills and the internet to participate fully in society today,” said Marion Haynes from Comcast. “This investment makes sure that people who wouldn’t otherwise have these resources now have access to them.”
Of the $2 million, Free Geek received $1 million specifically to purchase close to 4,000 laptops for individuals in need. On Sunday, the organization distributed 500 Dell laptops to families who could benefit from them.
In Multnomah County, roughly 20% of people live below 200% of the federal poverty line, which means many families can’t afford the technology that’s essential for education, work, and daily life. Free Geek’s Executive Director, Juan Muro, explained the goal: “We aim to reduce the digital inequality that exists by providing these devices… today is just the beginning of that effort.”
For many of the recipients, the laptops were game-changers. Bill Stewart, for instance, had been using an old, bulky desktop computer—something he referred to as a “Frankenstein” machine—to search for work after unexpectedly losing his job.
“It’s incredible,” Stewart said after receiving his new Dell laptop. “I’ve been trying for a couple of years to save up enough money for one, but most of my career has been in computers, and the job market is awful right now. I’ve been out of work for a few months, so this is a lifesaver.”
Stewart went on to share his appreciation for Free Geek’s efforts, saying, “I’ve always been a fan of what Free Geek does. But for them to offer this opportunity—no matter how tight your finances are—it’s something you can’t pass up.”
The laptop distribution event was made possible through partnerships with several local nonprofit organizations that support individuals and families in need. Groups like IRCO, Hacienda CDC, NAYA, and others played a crucial role in connecting people with these valuable resources.
For many of these families, the digital divide isn’t just about access to entertainment or social media—it’s about being able to apply for jobs, attend virtual classes, and access basic services that are increasingly moving online. Free Geek’s work is about more than handing out laptops; it’s about giving people a chance to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
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The support from Comcast, the Mount Hood Cable Regulatory Commission, and Free Geek is just the beginning. There’s still much work to be done, but this event marks a crucial step forward in helping people access the tools they need to succeed.