The Device Donation Drive Returns

Editor's Note: The Device Donation Drive runs through January 31, 2027, accepting unneeded technology at 10 drop-off locations across Charlotte, DeSoto, Manatee, and Sarasota counties. To find a drop-off site, view the Device Donation Drive Flyer, or contact digitalaccess@thepattersonfoundation.org to arrange a business pickup.

Do you have a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet that you no longer need? 

You can help someone in your community by donating it during The Patterson Foundation’s (TPF) annual Device Donation Drive, part of the Digital Access for All initiative.

Though all three legs of the digital access stool – devices, connectivity, and skills – are vital, the journey can’t begin until someone has a device in hand. A working computer is a necessary first step in connecting individuals and families with many necessities of modern life, opening doors to education, healthcare, job opportunities, and social connection.

That’s one of the many reasons TPF partners with The Refurb Project.

Started by the Sarasota Technology Users Group, The Refurb Project is an all-volunteer organization led by Mike Hutchinson that collects unneeded computers, securely deletes the data, and reconditions them. Used technology that might otherwise be discarded is instead given a new lease on life and provided to someone who can’t access a computer on their own.

Since it launched in 2004, The Refurb Project has donated well over 25,000 refurbished computers to individuals and organizations across the region.

A steady supply of devices is needed to help The Refurb Project with its mission.

TPF’s Device Donation Drive – which runs from October 1, 2026 through January 31, 2027 – is an easy way for you to become part of the process. Individuals can drop off their unneeded laptops, desktop computers, tablets, phones, monitors, or peripherals at one of ten spots across Charlotte, DeSoto, Manatee, and Sarasota counties.

Do you own a business and want to take part in the Device Donation Drive? We’ll pick up your redundant devices that would normally go to a recycler and ensure that they are stripped of data to the highest standards by the experts at The Refurb Project. Or you can tell your employees and your customers about the drive and collect their unneeded devices for us to pick up.

Let us know, and we’ll be happy to work with you to make the process easy and recognize your efforts to help your community.