Much of the equipment turned in Thursday appeared to be functional, Houghton said. Whenever possible, Redemtech refurbishes computers and other devices, and works with charities to give the devices to needy families. Redemtech often works with Habitat for Humanity, and Thursday's event benefited Washington, D.C., charity .

In the current recession, it's more important than ever for poor families to have computers and Internet access, Houghton said. The Internet gives them access to job boards, education and training, he said.

Redemtech refurbishes the equipment itself in U.S. plants. It recycles some material and uses U.S. processors to break down and recycle materials such as lead, Houghton said.

Thursday's event was organized by Representative Mike Thompson, a California Democrat, and Senator Sherrod Brown, an Ohio Democrat.