Refurbished devices headed to Laval‑Ouest family centre
The Maison de la famille de Laval‑Ouest is set to expand its technology capacity after a donation arranged by the Electronics Recycling Association (ERA) in partnership with Fabre MNA Alice Abou‑Khalil. The equipment package, announced by the ERA, includes refurbished computers and peripherals that the organization says will help the neighbourhood hub broaden access to digital tools for programming and administration.
According to the ERA, the bundle delivered in collaboration with the local MNA — who also serves as Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Cybersecurity and Digital Technology in the CAQ government — comprises two desktops, three laptops, three tablets, one projector and one printer. The gear is intended to support the centre’s learning activities and day‑to‑day operations, with a view to connecting more families to online resources and educational content.
“These devices will help strengthen the [Maison de la famille’s] ability to support families throughout the Laval community by providing greater access to technology for educational programs, administrative services, digital learning and community initiatives,” the association stated.
What the donation contains
| Item | Quantity | Intended use |
|---|---|---|
| Desktop computers | 2 | Workstations for learning or administration |
| Laptops | 3 | Portable access for programs and staff |
| Tablets | 3 | Interactive learning and outreach |
| Projector | 1 | Group sessions, workshops and presentations |
| Printer | 1 | Documents for families and internal needs |
Why it matters for Laval‑Ouest
Community organizations such as the Maison de la famille de Laval‑Ouest play a central role in inclusion, learning and well‑being. Devices that can be shared across classrooms, drop‑ins and counselling sessions allow these centres to deliver basic digital literacy, register families for programs, and provide access to online services that are increasingly required for school, work and government support. Even a small number of up‑to‑date machines can reduce bottlenecks for staff and volunteers and open additional hours or seats for participants.
For Laval residents who do not have reliable technology at home, a community workstation or tablet can be the difference between participating in a workshop and falling behind. A projector enables group instruction without forcing families to crowd around small screens, and a networked printer remains essential for program materials and forms. The ERA package, while modest, addresses several of these touchpoints at once.
Re‑use model links donors to local needs
The ERA refurbishes and redistributes technology gathered from corporate and institutional donors, working with businesses, governments, elected officials and community groups to place retired equipment where it can still serve. The organization says it supports charities, schools and non‑profits nationwide, and is encouraging organizations with surplus devices to consider contributing through its platform.
- Partnership model: The ERA coordinated with a local elected official to steer workable devices to a Laval‑Ouest recipient positioned to use them immediately.
- Refurbish and redistribute: Extending the life of computers and tablets diverts e‑waste while closing small digital gaps for front‑line services.
- Program delivery: Added capacity for registration, instruction and communications helps community staff serve families more efficiently.
Local leadership and next steps
Abou‑Khalil’s involvement underlines a broader policy focus on digital tools in public services. While the announcement does not include new funding or service expansions, the placement of hardware at an established family centre provides immediate, on‑the‑ground support where it is most likely to be used by families. Community organizations traditionally stretch every dollar — and every device — through multiple users, from homework help to parent workshops.
The Maison de la famille de Laval‑Ouest is positioned to integrate the gear across its programming and administration. As devices come online, families can expect additional access points for training and information, and staff will have more reliable tools to coordinate activities, communicate with participants and maintain records. For donors, the ERA notes that businesses and organizations with retired computers, laptops, tablets or other IT equipment can channel them to the program via its website.
For Laval‑Ouest households navigating schooling, employment transitions or settlement services, even incremental upgrades in a familiar community space can make a measurable difference in day‑to‑day access. The coming months will show how the added capacity is absorbed into program schedules and whether the model attracts further contributions from local partners.
