Springfield.community

Living in the modern world requires access to technology: a computer or phone is assumed and expected to interface with everything from education to government services. Internet access is also assumed.

Springfield, Massachusetts has a 7% unemployment rate. Approximately 23% of families live in poverty. Access to programs like SNAP/EBT and MassHealth have become restricted. Residents have been dropped from programs, and those who remain enrolled may still receive no benefits. Maintaining enrollment in these services requires access to a computer or smart phone, and access to internet -- access that 1 in 4 residents cannot afford.

The current environment has left a chasm where being able to learn in-demand skills is simply impossible. Residents in poverty have a difficult time accessing training to seek employment. Students are restricted to learning set curriculum on restrictive Chromebooks that discourage experimentation, keeping them behind industry trends. With electronics prices skyrocketing, the situation has become increasingly dire.

Springfield.community has stepped into this environment, refurbishing donated computers for distribution to community members in need. Via our partner organizations, Springfield.community has distributed over 1,000 devices a year since 2024: over 10,000 lbs of valuable equipment being used by those who need it most, instead of occupying a landfill. Students have logged 300+ hours in classes that teach AI and hardware, being able to keep the equipment from each class to encourage continued learning.

Join us. Donate your unused tech, volunteer your time, or simply spread the word. Together we can ensure every Springfield resident can connect, communicate, and thrive.

What we need:

$70,000: keep Springfield.community operating through 2027, and help vulnerable Springfield-are residents receive 1,000 more computers.

$100,000: We will be able to run free-to-participate Build-A-PC workshops in 2027. Students will be taught to build impressive computers and keep what they build.

$180,000: We will be able to hire an additional employee to help with refurbishing equipment, classes and hackerspace operations.

$250,000: We will be able to rent a dedicated space, expanding our hackerspace operation from 2 nights a week to 6 days a week, and serve a greater number of residents.