A St. Paul-based technology nonprofit is facing skyrocketing demand for its low-cost computers as the coronavirus outbreak shutters schools and low-income households scramble for other ways to access the Internet.

PCs for People gets its computers from businesses that are getting rid of outdated machines by the truckload. The nonprofit refurbishes the computers for sale to the poor at rock-bottom prices. It also offers low-cost Internet access.

Now, PCs for People is critically low on computers, and it has put out a desperate call for donations.

“The demand for affordable computers has drastically increased,” said PCs for People spokeswoman Tina Stennes. “We are looking to companies to take action and donate all of their technology that is sitting being unused.

“The need to digitally connect our underserved communities is more vital than ever,” she added. “Our services are needed right now to make education equitable for all children, (provide) access to tele-health, and (ensure) access to information during extreme isolation for seniors.”

Laptops are needed the most, Stennes said, but PCs for People also takes desktop computers. Such donated machines should be no older than four generations.

“With the support of our community businesses, PCs for People will keep operations moving forward to get high-quality refurbished computers in the hands of those that need them the most during this unprecedented time,” she said.