Organization providing low cost computing pushing Microsoft???

[Mark Mcsweeney]

- I heard a story on the radio today about an organization in
Manchester and Nashua called Donation Networks.

- Their website is:

http://www.donationnetworks.org/


- They have a program that they call "Computers in Every Home" with
the mission statement of:

"The Computers In Every Home Program is a statewide initiative geared
towards providing personal computer access and training to NH's
disadvantaged, youth, low-income, at-risk-youth and senior adults etc
The program seeks to build capacity among residents by giving them the
opportunity of owning computer systems at very nominal fees or at no
cost with community service. Parents may apply for a PC for their kids
School Homework needs. By engaging in this project, we hope to
overcome the barriers people may face in accessing education,
employment opportunities and social services needs."

- This piqued my interest since it seems that they want to bring low
cost computing to as may people as possible.

I was disappointed though, when I scrolled to the bottom of the page
and saw this:


-------------------------------

"5. Software: The system comes with Microsoft Application software. By
using the software, eligible recipient agrees to be bound by all terms
of this Recipient Agreement.  If Eligible Recipient does not agree to
the terms of this Recipient Agreement, it must not use any of the
software."

-------------------------------



It seems to me that an organization that is looking to provide low/no
cost computing to disadvantaged citizens would be able to provide the
best service with a FOSS solution rather than by an expensive,
proprietary system.

Is anybody familiar with this organization??  Are they pushing
Microsoft due to ignorance of FOSS, obstinacy, or something else??


Thoughts....feedback appreciated.



Mark