Ottawa / Orléans Community Computer Refurbishing Program 

Now celebrating its 10th year, the Community Computer Refurbishing Program (CCRP) continues to give new life to donated computers by refurbishing them and providing them, free of charge, to individuals in the Ottawa-Orléans (Ontario) community who need access to technology.

Founded in 2016 by Paul and Nancy Bégin, CCRP began with a simple but meaningful mission: to reduce the number of computers ending up in landfills while providing free refurbished computers to individuals in the Ottawa-Orléans community.

Today, the refurbishing side of the program is operated by Charlie Cox and his son, Brodie, while Paul and Nancy oversee program financing and community support. Together, this dedicated team has provided more than 1,700 computers to families, students, entrepreneurs, seniors, newcomers to Canada, and others who need access to technology. What started with just 25 computers in 2016 has grown into a far-reaching community initiative.

True to the “buy nothing” philosophy, all refurbished computers are given back to the community at no charge.

Every donated computer is carefully refurbished to ensure it remains a valuable and reliable tool for its next user. Charlie and Brodie restore each device with care, using parts salvaged from non-working computers whenever possible. Donors can feel confident knowing that all hard drives are thoroughly wiped and personal information is securely removed before any device is refurbished or reused.

Depending on the device’s age and configuration:

• Operating Systems: Windows 11 is installed on supported devices. Older devices that cannot support Windows are equipped with Elementary OS (Linux).
• Chromebooks: Factory reset and prepared for reuse.
• Upgrades: As needed, refurbished computers may receive new batteries, power cords, webcams, speakers, and Wi-Fi adapters.

The program’s greatest ongoing need is donations of no-longer-used laptops. Every donated device creates a new opportunity for someone else.

CCRP’s success would not have been possible without the generosity of the many individuals, families, and businesses who chose to donate their unused equipment instead of discarding it. The program is entirely self-funded, with proceeds from the sale of certain items helping to cover the cost of replacement parts and repairs. In addition, financial donations from community members help support refurbishing costs—100% of every dollar received goes directly back into the program.

Thank you for your interest and support. Neighbours helping neighbours—it all starts with you!