While many old computers and sewing machines sit away unused in Australia, they could change someone's life in places Leyte, an island of the Philippines devastated by typhoon Yolanda.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Local Geoff Higgins said sewing machines allowed people to make garments to sell while second-hand computers allowed students who couldn't afford access to internet cafes to do their assignments.
"Over 50 per cent of the residents of the Philippines are living below the poverty line. Poverty is affecting schools and high school and college students," Mr Higgins said.
So far Mr Higgins and the Dubbo Community Men's Shed have sent 642 computers overseas and 178 sewing machines overseas.
They have been soliciting computers from TAFE colleges, universities, through newspaper articles and shipping the items with Forex World Pty Ltd who reduced the freight charge for the cause.
Rod Pilon Transport is also taking the boxes from Dubbo to Sydney free of charge as a gesture of goodwill.
It all began three years ago when the retired pastor of the Dubbo Christian Family Church went with a social worker to visit the people of a slum area.
"They were hard up and I thought if we sent computers it might help," he said.
"Since the Dubbo Men's Shed came onboard they have been so supportive... they have gone with trailers and brought back machines and computers from Lithgow and Bathurst."
He is also looking for someone who knows how to check the sewing machines are in good working order.You can find out more by phoning him the Dubbo Community Men's Shed on 02 68 820 521.
