Last year, Comcast introduced its Internet Essentials program, which offers specially discounted Internet service for school-age children participating in the National Free Lunch Program. The subscription includes a low-cost Internet service for $9.95 per month (plus applicable sales tax), a low-cost computer voucher to purchase a computer ($149.99 plus tax), access to a free Norton Security Suite online safety software and digital literacy training in print, online or in-person.
As a result of efforts by Comcast and its community partners, nearly 400,000 low-income Americans are connected to the Internet at home for the first time. The program has returned for the second year with some enhancements including eligibility expansion, doubled Internet speeds, a streamlined approval process and the introduction of a bulk order program so community partners can purchase subscriptions for the eligible families they serve.
Share this information with your friends, neighbors and community groups so they can take full advantage of the services.
- For general information about Internet Essentials, please visit: www.internetessentials.com (for English) and www.internetbasico.com (for Spanish).
- For educators, third-parties and others interested in helping to spread the word, please visit: www.internetessentials.com/partner where you can access free brochures and other handouts.
- If you know a parent who should apply for this program, please tell them to call 1-855-846-8376 or, for Spanish, 1-855-765-6995.
In the video below, you will hear from FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski, civil rights leader and Georgia Congressman John Lewis, Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel, FCC Commissioner Mignon Clyburn, Dean Connie Spinner with UDC Community College as well as others including a teacher and a family about the benefit of the Internet Essentials program. –yvette caslin
