The community-led initiative aims to remove digital access barriers for local learners by providing professionally refurbished devices to those who need them most.
The program operates through partnerships with Goulburn-Murray Water, Goulburn Valley Water and Goulburn Valley Grammar School, which donate retired laptops in bulk.
Advance Computing and Data Parts then refurbishes the devices, ensuring each laptop is ready for its second life.
The initiative supports students across primary, secondary and tertiary education, as well as recipients of Lift Off educational scholarships.
This year, 19 students received laptops through the Lift Off program alone to support their transition into university or TAFE.
The Lift Off educational scholarships represent a partnership between the Greater Shepparton Foundation and the Lighthouse Project.
Greater Shepparton Lighthouse Project executive officer Amy Robinson said the initiative reflected the organisation’s whole-of-community approach.
“As the cost of living continues to grow, so too does the demand from families to access material support in our region, which includes essential educational resources,'“ she said.
“I encourage other businesses or individuals to get involved and donate if you can assist, whether one laptop or a business upgrading several devices.”
For more information about contributing to or accessing the program, contact Laptops with Love program co-ordinator Kathy Fuller at kfuller@gslp.com.au
