NASHUA – Many of us have an old phone or laptop tucked away in a drawer. For someone else, that same device could mean applying for a job, scheduling a doctor’s appointment, helping a child with homework or simply staying connected.

The United Way of Greater Nashua is inviting neighbors to donate working smartphones and laptops to support its Tech Connect United digital access program, a hands-on, community effort to make sure everyone has both the tools and the support they need to navigate today’s digital world.

Every week, the United Way meets people who qualify for a free phone plan and SIM card through Assurance Wireless, but don’t have a phone to put it in. Others are searching for work but can’t complete online applications without a laptop. Some are simply trying to figure out how to send an email, join a Zoom call or avoid online scams.

That’s where Tech Connect United steps in.

The program collects donated devices and redistributes them to local residents who need them most. But it doesn’t stop there. Through free digital literacy workshops and one-on-one tech support sessions, volunteers and trained digital navigators sit side-by-side with community members to build skills and confidence.

Workshops are beginner-friendly and practical, covering topics such as:

-Setting up and managing email

-Recognizing and avoiding scams

-Using the Internet safely

-Completing online job and benefit applications

-Navigating telehealth platforms

-Understanding smartphone basics

For those who need more personalized help, one-on-one tech appointments provide patient, step-by-step guidance tailored to each person’s needs, whether that’s setting up a newly donated laptop, learning how to download apps, recovering passwords or simply gaining confidence clicking the right buttons. Sessions are offered at United Way and partner community locations throughout Greater Nashua.

“It’s not just about handing someone a device,” said Sara Ceaser of the United Way of Greater Nashua. “It’s about sitting beside them and helping them feel confident using it. That’s when real change happens.”

The United Way is currently collecting:

-Unlocked smartphones (Android or iPhone) in good working condition, preferably with a charger, able to power on and hold a charge, with no activation lock (iCloud or Google account removed). Phones will be provided to individuals who qualify for a free phone plan and SIM card through Assurance Wireless but do not have a compatible device.

-Working laptops (Windows or Mac) that power on, include a charger, and are less than 8-10 years old. Devices should be in good condition and suitable for basic internet use, job applications, schoolwork, and virtual appointments.

Devices can be dropped off at: United Way of Greater Nashua 20 Broad St. on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Residents interested in attending a workshop or scheduling one-on-one tech help can learn more at unitedwaynashua.org/digital-literacy/.

When neighbors help neighbors get connected, the whole community grows stronger.

To volunteer, donate, or ask questions, contact United Way at info@unitedwaynashua.org or at 603-882-4011.