LOCAL SHADOW MP URGES LOCAL CHARITIES TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF IT GIVEAWAY

11.28.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Mon 14th Sep 2009

Shadow MP for Oldham West & Royton including Chadderton, Mark Alcock is today encouraging local charities to take advantage of a free software giveaway from major IT companies.

The Charity Technology Exchange offers donated technology products from partners including Microsoft, Symantec and Cisco to eligible Charities and Charitable Housing Associations. Products on offer include versions of Microsoft Office, Cisco Systems Wireless Routers, and Norton Antivirus.

The programme has supported over 3,600 charities nationwide since it was launched in 2006, including the Stockport and District Branch of the Alzheimer's Society, and now Mr Stunell is keen to ensure that as many local charities as possible benefit from this programme.

Commenting, Mark Alcock said:

"I am sure there are many charities across Oldham Borough, and Greater Manchester who could benefit from the free software on offer.

"With the recession still grinding on, local charities budgets are being squeezed, the same as everyone else. Taking advantage of the generosity of companies like Microsoft and Symantec could provide a significant boost for many local charities.

"Good I.T. systems can really help charities bring in supporters and get out their message - so I would encourage all local charities to give it a go! Just register with the Charity Technology Exchange, and see if you are eligible to benefit."

Interested organisations should visit http://www.ctxchange.org/ and register their organisation.