FERNDALE, Wash. — Comcast announced yesterday it has expanded eligibility for its discount internet access program called Internet Essentials to include all qualified low-income households in its service areas nationwide.
The program includes:
- high-speed internet service for $9.95 a month plus tax
- the option to purchase an Internet-ready computer for less than $150
- multiple options to access free digital literacy training in print, online, and in person
The program is structured as a partnership between Comcast and tens of thousands of school districts, libraries, elected officials and nonprofit community partners according to the company announcement.
The program has connected 2,200 Whatcom County households, including 400 in the Ferndale area, since its launch according to company officials.
Click for more information
Click for more informationTo be eligible to apply to the program, low-income applicants need to show they are participating in one of more than a dozen different government assistance programs. These include:
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
Comcast says they already accept applications from households that have a student eligible to participate in the National School Lunch Program, live in public housing or receive HUD Housing Assistance, including Section 8 vouchers, or participate in the Veterans Pension Program, as well as low-income seniors and community college students in select pilot markets.
A full list of the programs and information about how to enroll can be found at www.internetessentials.com or by calling 1-855-846-8376. Spanish-only speakers can also call 1-855-765-6995.
Today’s announcement follows 11 previous eligibility expansions, including last year’s extension of the program to low-income veterans according to the company announcement.