CEO pledge a boon for redistribution program CFS+
The Government of Canada’s Computer for Schools Plus (CFS+) program is a win-win for Canadian business leaders.
This federal program, that has been serving communities for nearly 30 years, allows companies to securely and sustainably refurbish and redistribute their electronic devices, from cell phones to tablets, laptops and computers. It’s a socially impactful and environmentally conscious solution for used electronics.
CFS + is supported by organizations like Computers for Success that help the program acquire and distribute the devices.
“The program takes in devices from government and corporate partners, it refurbishes them, all the while providing valuable hands-on experience to youth interns, and redistributes free or lowcost computers back out to schools, non-profits and lowincome families,” said Toby Harper-merrett, executive director at Computers for Success.
“It was a visionary program at its launch and the need continues to be great. Since 1993, CFS+ has refurbished and redistributed over 1.7 million computers.”
The CFS+ program has made a lasting positive impact in Canada in three ways. First, it has kept older, but still useful devices out of recycling and landfills. Businesses can feel safe knowing they’re having their data properly erased before devices are refurbished.
Second, these computers make their way into communities with limited access to technology across the country through CFS+ program affiliate organizations in each province and territory.
“Millions of people have benefitted,” said Harpermerrett. “It’s families with young children, it’s those
living with disabilities. It allows for people across Canada to benefit from the use of technology.”
Lastly, CFS+ is allowing young people learn invaluable digital skills through a paid internship program.
“There’s a skill-building component to it, but it’s also an enriching life experience for these interns,” Harpermerrett said. “A link between education and employment.”
In June, Microsoft Canada initiated the CEO pledge, a joint effort where Canadian business leaders pledge to donate their end-of-cycle electronics to the CFS+ program. Longstanding supporters Bell and TELUS joined the pledge, along with new supporters Best Buy Canada, Enbridge Inc., Scotiabank,
Staples, Sun Life and TD Bank Group.
“We initiated the CEO Pledge because we are committed to helping Canadians
access the skills training and tools they need to succeed in the digital economy, and we feel that the CFS+ program shares those values and offers a secure and sustainable solution for end-of-life technology for corporations across Canada,” says Jason Hermitage, VP of sales, Microsoft Canada.
“We are very grateful to Microsoft Canada for this initiative, and to all the corporate leaders who have joined the initial phase of the CEO Pledge,” said Harper-merrett. “Their choice of the CFS+ program will help an even greater number of people in Canada get the tools and skills they need to participate in the digital economy. By committing your end-ofcycle computers to the CFS+ program, you are helping improve address issues of digital exclusion in Canada.”
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