Technology can provide immediate relief and long-term digital sustainability, especially when communities need it the most. Dell Technologies’ Portable Connectivity Centers (PCCs) are an example of how critical technology and communication resources can support recovery efforts for displaced populations.
A Global Effort for Local Impact
PCCs are part of our Solar Community Hubs portfolio. Designed in partnership with Computer Aid International and others, the hubs to help bridge the digital divide and support communities around the world. To date, our 48 hubs have reached and provided support for over 2.4 million people.
Each hub serves a unique purpose – scaled to meet local needs. From mobile hubs offering Internet access to larger fixed hubs offering comprehensive support including economic opportunities, healthcare services and access to water and electricity.
Specifically designed for flexibility and mobility, PCCs are typically deployed to help displaced communities in response to natural disasters and other challenges. A collaborative approach through the N50 project has been instrumental in making a difference for displaced populations. These centers play a vital role by supporting education, ensuring safety, providing healthcare access, and helping restore essential government services.
There are currently 18 PCCs worldwide, supporting residents in Romania, Morrocco, Ukraine and Brazil.
PCCs to Mitigate Educational Disruption
PCCs opened in Romania in early 2022 and offer opportunities beyond Internet access. In Suceava, children aged 6-17 are using the PCC services to learn and practice programming basics, AI concepts, email writing and graphic design. Students are also using a local PCC to learn animation techniques in the Valcea region.
One of the key benefits of PCCs is the opportunity to deploy solutions quickly, even during times of chaos. As of the end of 2023, the crisis in Ukraine had reportedly displaced an estimated 3.7 million people within the region, with an estimated 6.3 million refugees and asylum-seekers seeking protection abroad. These figures highlight the profound challenges families endure and the urgent need for scalable, innovative solutions to effectively support displaced populations.
PCCs to Aid Resilience in the Face of Adversity
It is one year since Morocco’s most significant earthquake in over six decades, which affected around 380,000 people. Within six months of the disaster, we were able to deploy four PCCs to support the Al Haouz communities most impacted by the earthquake. These centers, harnessed by solar power and equipped with Dell Rugged Laptops, offer vital communication tools to bolster recovery efforts. A fifth PCC was deployed in November to continue expanding local support.
The motivation of beneficiaries to learn and quickly embrace the tools at their disposal has been inspiring. For example, the “Women’s Cooperative of Tinmel” can now sell their handcrafted work digitally after participating in IT classes. This showcases a real spirit of solidarity and community resilience. The PCCs in Morocco offer educational support from basic IT literacy to ICDL training, plus the training of local coordinators to drive continued growth.
There is also a focus on helping users achieve financial stability through initiatives like career guidance, employability training and support for commercializing cooperatives. Beyond education, the PCC also offers psychological support services, provided by Fondation Orient Occident.
PCCs to Help Rebuild Communities
In May 2024, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, experienced the largest flood in its history, destroying homes and displacing thousands of families. 
The Dell Technologies Brazil headquarters in Eldorado were initially repurposed for emergency sheltering efforts and we provided aid and donated food, fuel and laptops to support those affected.
In addition to launching a dedicated global fundraising campaign and matching donations, we also recently deployed a PCC to support the local community. Beyond Internet connectivity and access to essential services, this PCC provides access to municipality services. This includes job seeker support, onsite healthcare services, social and psychological assistance, and housing. These centers are a lifeline for communities in crisis, offering not just technology but hope and a path to recovery.
The Evolution of the Solar Community Hub Program
What started as a focus on connectivity and education has grown into so much more, thanks to the creativity and support of our team, strategic partners and customers. We’ve built on our shared values and commitment to tackling big societal challenges, which has driven the incredible evolution of our Solar Community Hubs program.
By teaming up with local community leaders, we’re creating collective impact and addressing the unique needs of the communities we serve.
As one of our hub users recently shared, “Sometimes, we only need the little things… to bring us back on track. It is the little things that we don’t have that give us the power to become who we want to be. It’s like getting access to the world.”
Our PCCs and hubs are just one example of how we are driving digital inclusion and supporting communities in need. Each PCC sparks a sustainable ecosystem to generate long-term, sustainable value for communities and ensure that no one is left behind.
Learn more about the Dell Technologies Solar Community Hubs program here.