In Sarasota, the Goodwill STUG free computers initiative is helping bridge the digital divide by providing essential technology to those in need. From students to job seekers, this partnership is creating opportunities for education, employment, and connection.
In today’s world, technology is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. From online classes to job applications, healthcare appointments to staying connected with loved ones, access to computers and the internet is essential. But for many in Sarasota, this access is out of reach.
This gap, known as the digital divide, affects thousands of people in our community. Students struggle to complete homework, job seekers can’t apply for positions online, and seniors are cut off from telehealth services. That’s why Goodwill Manasota and the Sarasota Technology Users Group (STUG) are teaming up to close this gap. Together, they’re turning old electronics into free computers for those in need, creating opportunities for education, employment, and connection.
The Digital Divide: A Barrier to Opportunity
The digital divide isn’t just about lacking a computer—it’s about missing out on opportunities. Here are some real-world examples of how this gap affects our community:
- Students Falling Behind:
- Many students don’t have access to a computer at home. Without one, they can’t complete online assignments, research projects, or even apply for scholarships. This puts them at a disadvantage compared to their peers.
- Job Seekers Struggling to Compete:
- Most job applications today are online. Without a computer or internet access, job seekers can’t search for openings, submit resumes, or attend virtual interviews. This makes it nearly impossible to find stable employment.
- Seniors Isolated from Services:
- Many seniors rely on telehealth for medical appointments and online platforms to stay connected with family. Without technology, they’re cut off from these vital services, leading to feelings of isolation and poorer health outcomes.
- Families Without Access to Resources:
- From online banking to government services, many essential resources are now digital. Families without computers or internet access struggle to pay bills, access benefits, or even help their kids with schoolwork.
Goodwill Manasota and STUG are working to change this by providing free computers and digital training to those who need it most.
Digital Access and Infrastructure in Sarasota
Sarasota County is making strides in closing the digital divide, thanks to statewide and local initiatives:
- In 2023, Florida invested $247 million through the Capital Projects Fund Broadband Infrastructure Program, connecting over 59,000 unserved and underserved locations, including homes, businesses, and community institutions like libraries and hospitals. Sarasota County benefits from these efforts. Learn more about Florida’s broadband initiatives at FloridaJobs.org.
- The Patterson Foundation’s Digital Access for All Initiative is also active in Sarasota, providing equipment, internet access, and skills training to underserved communities. This includes urban areas with connectivity gaps and rural regions lacking internet service providers.
Despite these efforts, as of 2024, 83.78% of households in the Tampa Bay region (which includes Sarasota County) have access to a laptop, desktop, or high-speed internet. That means nearly 2 out of every 10 households still lack digital access.
The Digital Skills Gap: A Growing Challenge
In Florida, 90% of jobs require digital skills, with 44% definitely requiring them and 46% likely requiring them. This highlights the urgent need for foundational digital skills training across industries like healthcare, manufacturing, retail, and finance. Statistics sourced here.
Nationally, one-third of U.S. workers lack the foundational digital skills needed for in-demand jobs. Florida faces a similar divide, emphasizing the importance of skill-building programs to improve employment opportunities.
Explore the importance of digital skills in the workforce at National Skills Coalition.
How Goodwill STUG Provides Free Computers to Sarasota
Goodwill Manasota and STUG have started a new partnership to help close the digital divide. Here’s how it works:
- Goodwill collects old electronics, like computers, laptops, and hard drives (called e-scrap).
- They donate at least 100 pounds of e-scrap every month to STUG.
- STUG’s volunteers refurbish the e-scrap into working computers.
- These computers are given to students, job seekers, and nonprofits in Sarasota County.
This partnership helps people in need while also reducing e-waste in landfills. It’s a win-win for the community and the environment.
Learn more about the importance of digital equity from the National Digital Inclusion Alliance
STUG’s Mission: Empowering Sarasota Through Technology
STUG has been helping Sarasota since 1982. Their mission is to:
- Teach people how to use technology through workshops and classes.
- Refurbish old computers and give them to those in need.
- Support students, job seekers, and nonprofits with free technology.
Since 2004, STUG’s Refurb Project has donated over 20,000 refurbished computers to disadvantaged students and low-income individuals in Sarasota and nearby counties. This initiative helps bridge the technology gap by providing essential devices for education and career development.
“Without sufficient technology, access to affordable internet services, and the skills to navigate the online world, community members are at a significant disadvantage in accessing information and services as well as the ability to search and apply for jobs,” said Goodwill Manasota Vice President of Mission Services, Margie Genter. “The Sarasota Technology Users Group addresses all of those issues, teaching community members how to use the technology as well as providing refurbished computers for community members in need. We have at least 100 team members who have benefited from receiving computers from STUG; we are excited for this new collaboration, which not only affirms our commitment to digital equity but also reduces further waste going to area landfills.”
Learn more about Goodwill Manasota’s mission at experiencegoodwill.org.
Join the Movement: How You Can Help
You can help close the digital divide in Sarasota! Here’s how:
- Donate your old electronics to Goodwill Manasota.
- Volunteer with STUG to refurbish computers.
- Spread the word about this important work.
Visit Goodwill Manasota’s website or STUG’s website to learn more and get involved.
Find out how to donate electronics responsibly at Earth911.
