Transamerica, Aegon's main brand in the United States, is donating retired computers and technology to support efforts to close the digital divide faced by low-income children and families in Maryland.
Aegon Transamerica Foundation has teamed up with the Maryland branch of PCs for People to make the donation. PCs for People is a nonprofit social enterprise that strives to close the digital divide in the United States.
Transamerica will donate 350 retired computers and technology to PCs for People's e-waste recycling and ITAD (IT asset disposition) services. Computers that can be refurbished with be provided to low-income children and families in Maryland.
Equipment that is outdated or non-working will be recycled, and the proceeds will be used to support Pcs for People's technical support services, subsidized internet access, and upcoming digital literacy programs. The contents of the hard drives of the donated computers will be safely wiped before they are reused.
"The Covid-19 pandemic has reinforced how the disparities in digital connectivity are undermining efforts in equity and educational access," said Bradie Barr, Chair, Aegon Transamerica Foundation—Baltimore Committee. "The efforts by PCs for People to close the digital divide, as well as their leading sustainability and recycling practices, align perfectly with the Aegon Transamerica Foundation's focus on supporting the communities where we live and work."
PCs for People has delivered more than 1,500 computers and hotspots to low-income families and individuals across Maryland since July 2020. All equipment was donated or purchased through grants from local companies and organizations. PCs for People – Maryland will start hosting computer training sessions at its Baltimore location this year.