In 2024, United Seniors in partnership with Computer and Technology Resource Center
(CTRC) donated 30 desktop computers to low-income seniors and their families. These
efforts complimented the city of Oakland’s $38.5 million dollar investment to improve
broadband infrastructure for East and West Oakland.

The Oakland Housing Authority’s Palo Vista's Gardens, home to 100 seniors and a
United Seniors affiliate received a significant upgrade to their Internet access resulting
in free service for residents. “I was paying $100 a month for the Internet, now I pay zero.
It's a big help on my limited finances, and the Internet connection is more dependable
than the old one.” said United Seniors board member, Karen Smulevitz.

In December 2024, United Seniors hosted a holiday event. United Seniors board
member Janny Castillo facilitated a senior friendly orientation where 10 participants
were given free computers and learned how to navigate the Xubuntu operating system.
Board Treasurer Sandra Johnson was instrumental in referring seniors to the event.

CTRC is a 30-year-old multi-county e-waste recycler responsible for diverting tons of          e-waste from landfills. In 2024, CTRC donated a total of 640 computers of which 145
computers were donated to Alameda County entities and residents, and 94 to the city of
Oakland.

In 2025, United Seniors and CTRC will increase their efforts to bridge the digital divide
by offering free desktop computers to United Seniors members. Refurbished computers
are suitable for home use and small computer labs. All donated systems are PCs, come
with a monitor, keyboard and mouse, and installed with the Xubuntu operating system
with a full suite of programs. We do not have laptops or printers to donate. USOAC members can get on the list for a free desktop computer by calling (510) 729-0852.
CTRC can also donate multiple systems to nonprofits and schools through a separate
application process.