Fife computer shop refurbishing laptops to help kids access school work

A Fife computer business is appealing to the public for their unwanted laptops in a bid to help local young people.

David Moran, owner of Glenrothes-based HAGO Computers, is currently running the appeal in aid of those families who are unable to afford computer equipment.

David will refurbish any laptops donated to the cause before they are distributed to those in need through local high schools and other agencies.

He explained: “There are some families that can’t afford laptops but with the current situation the children are expected to do a lot of work on computers at home.

“We were asked if we can help but it hammered home when we were approached by a teacher from a Glenrothes school.

“I realised it was a bit more serious than just one or two kids and so launched an appeal.

“We’re looking for laptops customers are not using anymore that can be refurbished, cleaned and can take a Windows 10 installation. “We will do the work on them and then make them available to a school or agency that will distribute them to kids and families who need them.

“It’s not just laptops though, we’ll take desktops too.

“We all often take things for granted and this is just something we can do to help families at this time.”

On Monday, Sandra Smith, the teacher from Glenrothes High School who had been in touch with HAGO Computers, picked up four refurbished laptops to distribute to children in need.

The learning support nurture teacher said: “We look after some vulnerable pupils and there are a lot of families living in poverty in our area. They don’t have access to laptops and electronics.

“There were a few kids who weren’t getting on to the internet and weren’t able to access the learning that they needed so we contacted David at HAGO and asked if he had any spares lying around.

“We thought he might have had one or two, but he said he’d start an appeal.

“We have now got four lovely laptops that have been reconditioned and had new software put on them.

“I’ve given them to the families and the pupils were able to get online instantly and get on to the Teams page which we have for the school and reconnect with teachers and their peers.

“It’s like night and day for those kids. One had been able to use a phone to text us and keep in touch, but the others had no way to communicate.

“They are also able to access their school work now too.

“It’s a vital contact with the outside world for some of these kids.

“A lot of them spent a lot of time outside with friends so to find themselves in lockdown at home has been very difficult.

“David has been amazing and we’re very grateful to him and those who have donated the laptops.

“He is such a kind guy for doing this. There was no questions and he instantly did what he could to help.

“It’s great to see the local community pulling together.”

Anyone with an unwanted laptop which could help HAGO Computer’s appeal should contact the shop on 01592 774411 or via their Facebook page in the first instance.

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