Cheap Broadband Internet for the Poor
By 2besure
Comcast to the Rescue
Comcast has started a program called 'Internet Essentials', which offers low-income families the internet for $9.99 a month and access to computers for $150.00. We have seen the government roll out programs to needy families that provide, food, rent, safe and temporary housing and free cell phones.
This is one of the few times that a major company is providing assistance to a sector of the population who cannot afford something many people do not consider an essential. Obviously, Comcast feels that internet access is an essential consideration for those who are underprivileged.
Julius Genachowski, FCC Chairman, praised COmcast for helping bring people together with digital technology.
Why Internet and Computers?
Comcast realizes that many low-income children need internet access to study, do their homework; and be able to compete with children in better communities. There is the public library, but the last time I had to go to the library, I could only use it for an hour.
I was lucky my situation was temporary, and I was not dependent on the library to write my HubPages hubs! I cannot imagine only having one hour a day to be on the computer or internet.
Furthermore, adults in low-income families can use the internet to help improve their lives, by do everything from getting free food and product coupons to fill out and submit job application.
Who Qualifies?
Families with children who receive free lunch at a public school, are eligible for low-speed internet from Comcast. The service is guaranteed for at least three years, with no rental of activation costs. They also agree to provide free computer and internet training to those who need it. Comcast plans to roll out this program throughout the United States.
You do not qualify if:
- you have an unpaid Comcast bill
- overdue Comcast bills
- equipment that has not been returned
- have had Comcast internet in the last three months.
Internet Essentials
Internet/Computer Literacy and Job Readiness
Internet and computer literacy, is a necessity to do a job such as using a cash register, processing customer transaction, locating records, e-mailing and managing customer accounts. These jobs do not require higher education, but they do require the internet and computer literacy. These are basic job's skills that all employers expect.
This program helps low-income students prepare for college or local jobs in their future. Today, the average 3 years old knows how to use a computer while other children look at a computer with amazement and confusion. Internet Essentials, helps give low-income young people and their families a chance.
The goal of Comcast is to reach 2.5 million families with the internet and provide computers for sale for $150 or less.
Comments
Bitingtruths, I am sorry that your people suffer so. You are right, that our government helps the poor with food, housing and free medicine. We are very blessed indeed. We are fighting now because the Republican party wants to take all these things away from the poor. We have the greedy rich who only care about getting more money and they don't care about anyone else. But still this is a blessed country.
2besure,
I think people of America are lucky to have such people who are ready to help the needy. Here in India we need food and medicine more than internet. Although a majority section of population lives above poverty line still there are countless people who live in extreme poverty. I have seen kids crying due to sickness and disease and family avoiding the medical expenses. Saving money for food.
I know how hard customer service can be staciej, I have done it myself. I am also glad they are helping children and their families.
I had the opportunity to work for the company for a time, they had nothing but complaints from people who were not satisfied with the experience of dealing with them. Taking phone calls from irate customers was not my cup of tea and I left. Even though, that they are providing this program to low income families is a great thing. Now kids don't have to be disadvantaged because of the digital divide. Great Hub! Voted it up, interesting, useful.
Bheem, I was quite impressed that Comcast would make a move like that too!
Wow! great idea to facilitate internet service for low income families. It is not possible to live a better life without daily internet access these days. A great move by Comcast....
Eartha ohnson 3 weeks ago
I really need a laptop for me and my family. I am living on a fit income can you help me. right now i cant afford a laptop because it is to exp. thanks.