Wow, I was about ready to put on oven mitts to handle this thread!
Now back to the original problem and a suggestion I haven't seen yet.
Has your team tried applying for any grants? We applied for a grant that allowed us to purchase not one but two brand new Compaq computers for team use only. This is an option that may work for you if you can't afford to purchase one outright and can't find anyone to donate or loan one to you. You will have to do some research to see what, if any, grants are available and the conditions to apply for them.
As Ken mentioned, Ebay is a good place also. I purchased a second laptop for myself that I basically carry around and use for robotics only. When needed I've loaned it out to the team. I paid $410 for it shipped to my door, a 650mhz Toshiba Satellite with 2000 Pro on it. It's more than enough for programming and Word, Excel and Powerpoint (we've done several presentations with it). Not something you would do gaming on but that was never the intent I had with it when I bought it anyhow.
Also just get the general word out that you're looking for a (working) laptop. You neven know, someone may be upgrading and trying to decide what to do with the old one. The holidays are coming up and I'm sure someone out there will be getting a new computer which is perfect timing for you since the "six weeks" follow the holiday season. If you're team holds 501(c)3 status then donations should be easier to come by, whether private individual or corporation.
I'm sure you'll find a solution.
Now excuse me, I have to put on the mitts and get the orange flavor Pillsbury rolls out of the oven.
