MCS to gather laptop donations for Asylum Welcome

Following our recent fundraising initiative to support local primary schools through the purchase of laptops, we have been asked whether we can accept old laptops as a donation. The school is now working with Asylum Welcome and is happy to accept laptops to pass on.

What will pre-used laptops be used for?

With the current lockdown closing schools, refugee children and their families without laptops and access to the internet are being seriously disadvantaged. Asylum Welcome are therefore asking for the donation of unused laptops to help solve this urgent problem. Once laptops are collected and restored, they are redistributed to refugee children and their families unable to participate in online education.

These computers are going to make such a big difference to how these children and families can keep connected for learning purposes but also to keep in touch with friends and family here and back home and will enable them to access much-needed support that is now only being provided remotely.

Where can I drop one off?

There are two ways to donate:

1.  Asylum Welcome, Newtec Place, Magdalen Rd, Cowley, Oxford OX4 1RE, between 10am-3pm.
2.  MCS Main Reception between 8.30 – 16.00 Monday to Friday

Please note:

– Face coverings must be worn at all times on these sites.

– Dropping off must not take place if you are:

• are ill with Covid-19 symptoms
• have tested positive, even if asymptomatic
• have been advised to isolate by NHS Test & Trace
• are household members of a positive case
• are required to self-isolate for travel-related reasons

What condition of laptop do you accept and how should I delete any data?

The most useful laptops are ones which are in good condition and function well, accompanied by chargers. The repair shops can wipe the computers securely to ensure your privacy, however can not repair the computers with serious problems. We’d recommend you make sure to clear the laptop of any material you would like to keep before donating.

Who should I email to ask how I can help on this or other Asylum Welcome initiatives?

For queries about the laptops and logistics: laptopsforasylumwelcome@gmail.com

For queries about Asylum Welcome please write to: development@asylum-welcome.org or visit www.asylum-welcome.org