By Danielle Kutchel
Two charities have joined forces to help Victorians to bridge the digital divide.
Pearcedale-based Beyond Disability Inc (BDI) has teamed up with not-for-profit Givit to distribute computers to those in need, to help them get online and reconnect with the world.
BDI was incorporated in 1997, with the aim of helping those with an active brain but who may be stuck in their body to access the internet.
The organisation supplies computers and related equipment to people in need, along with guidance in how to use the technology – from things as simple as turning the computer on and off, to more complex topics like keeping safe online and backing up files.
BDI volunteers in regions across Victoria and even interstate will provide and maintain the equipment, including special adaptive aids for people with disabilities.
After almost 25 years in the business, BDI has helped several hundred families with thousands of dollars in computing equipment, according to founder Richard Stubbs OAM.
BDI can assist people with disabilities, veterans with PTSD and carers.
During Covid, BDI provided assistance to children learning from home who lacked the resources and know-how to conduct their schooling.
The organisation has also broadened its constitution to allow it to work with those with little to no tech literacy.
Seeking a way to reach out to even more people in future, BDI approached Givit for assistance in donating computers and laptops.
In early 2020 as bushfires wreaked havoc across the eastern seaboard, BDI volunteer Klaus restored around 50 old models and donated 20 of these through Givit to fire-affected victims.
In January 2021, BDI again contacted Givit for assistance with donating more PCs.
With help from Givit’s Victorian manager Solange Ardiles, BDI registered with Givit to use its online ‘virtual warehouse’ to offer donations to the public.
As well as providing computers and equipment, BDI offers full servicing and repair as needed.
As a result of the partnership, Givit has donated a further 30 PCs and laptops to multiple organisations, includingď€ 15 desktop PCs to Wellsprings for Women in Dandenong, six laptops for the Cranbourne Lions Club to better support nursing and aged care homes, and five desktop PCs to Olivia’s Place, who support vulnerable mums near Warragul.
They’ve even donated a laptop to a Northside Community Group in Canberra through Givit.
Ms Ardiles encouraged anyone in need of computing assistance to visit Givit’s website, www.givit.org.au, to find out how BDI can assist.
Alternatively, for more information visit www.bdi.org.au
