Computer Access

Windows 10 Support ended in 2025, but extended support is available through October 2027 on computers that already have it installed.  Click here for details.

Notice: The Computer Access program will be closed on Fridays starting October 17, 2025.

Computer ownership and skills have become essential in our digital world, but not everyone has equal access. Digital tools – something many of us take for granted – allow people to find jobs, complete schoolwork, and lead more connected and enriching lives.

The Computer Access program at People’s Resource Center helps bridge the digital divide by connecting clients with refurbished devices that meet their needs and repairing computers they already own.

Client Information:

Who can use the Computer Access program?

Adults (18+) who live in DuPage County and are registered as PRC clients can use the Computer Access program. The program offers:

  • Computer refurbishing – Limit one refurbished device per household
  • Computer repairs – Available whether the device came from PRC or somewhere else

See below for more information about our refurbishing and repair services. All services are free and available by appointment only.

Looking to build your digital skills? PRC also offers free Computer Training classes for adults. Learn more here.

What devices are available?

Our inventory is based on donations.

  • Desktop computers are usually available; each comes with a monitor, keyboard, mouse, webcam, speakers, Wi-Fi adapter, and all cords.
  • Laptops, all-in-one computers, and Chromebooks have limited availability. Laptops are available through a monthly giveaway – see below for details.

Refurbished devices include one of the following operating systems:

  • Windows 11 – Limited inventory available
  • Linux Mint – A free, safe, and reliable operating system that looks and feels similar to Windows 10
  • ChromeOS – Available on all Chromebooks

Windows 11 and Linux computers come with LibreOffice, a free software suite for creating documents, spreadsheets, and presentations, similar to Microsoft Office.

We do not offer tablets, mobile phones, or Apple/Mac computers.

Monthly Laptop Giveaway

Starting May 2026, laptops will only be available through a monthly giveaway.

To be entered, contact the Computer Access team. If you prefer not to wait, the team can schedule a desktop pickup appointment instead.

Entry and eligibility: When you request to enter the giveaway, your name will be added to the monthly drawing. To qualify, nobody in the household may have received a device from PRC. Only one entry per household will be accepted.

The drawing: Names are selected randomly during the last week of each month; the Computer Access team will share the drawing date when you enter. The number of devices available varies each month depending on inventory.

Drawing results: Everyone who entered will be contacted by phone when the drawing is complete.

  • Clients whose names are selected will be given instructions on when to pick up their laptop.
  • Clients whose names are not selected are welcome to request entry again next month or schedule a desktop pickup instead.

What repairs are offered?

Our team offers hardware and software repairs on Windows computers, Chromebooks, and Linux devices, whether it came from PRC or somewhere else. Laptop screen and hinge repairs are not offered, as these carry a high risk of further damage to the device.

Devices we do not work on:

  • Mobile phones
  • Tablets
  • Apple/Mac computers

Repairs are completed in the order they are received, and completion time varies. Devices that are not picked up within four weeks of completion will be considered abandoned and will go into PRC’s inventory.

How to get started

All services are available by appointment only at our Wheaton location.

To request a computer or schedule a repair, contact us:

📞 630-682-5402 x247

📧 computeraccess@peoplesrc.org

Donor Information:

Your donations make a difference

We rely on donations to provide free, refurbished devices to neighbors in our community.

Every computer we receive is securely wiped to protect your data. Devices that can’t be refurbished or reused are responsibly recycled through a certified R2 recycling partner. Don’t have a device to donate? You can also support us through our Amazon Wishlist – items ship directly to PRC.

Donations are accepted at our Wheaton location; appointments are preferred. To schedule a donation, call 630-682-5402 x247 or email computeraccess@peoplesrc.org.

Donation receipts are available upon request.

Donations we accept

We accept:

  • Windows laptops less than 10 years old (Windows 11 preferred)
  • Chromebooks less than 10 years old

We can’t accept:

  • Desktop computers, printers
  • Macs, TVs, CRT monitors
  • Cell phones, tablets, TVs
  • Computers more than 10 years old

Making the most of every donation

For those who need Windows for specific apps or tasks, having a Windows 11-ready laptop ensures they have a safe, up-to-date device whenever and wherever they need it.

Since Windows 10 is no longer available, we install Linux Mint on devices that can’t run Windows 11. This safe, reliable operating system extends the life of donated laptops and reduces electronic waste, helping our community stay connected.

Please see the map below for the locations where PRC offers free services throughout DuPage County.
Click each location on the map to learn more.

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Refurbished laptops and Chromebooks distributed to DuPage neighbors last year.

 

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Refurbished computers given to families

Our Mission

People’s Resource Center community exists to respond to basic human needs, promote dignity and justice, and create a future of hope and opportunity for the residents of DuPage County, Illinois.