WASHINGTON DC- The pandemic highlighted the need for students to have home Internet access, and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is taking steps to ensure the cost of access is not a barrier to access. The FCC has recently announced the new Affordable Connectivity Program, which will provide eligible families with a discount on Internet access.
Eligible households will be provided with a discount of up to $30 per month toward broadband service. The benefit also provides a discount of up to $100 per household toward a one-time qualifying purchase of a computer, laptop, or tablet purchased through a participating broadband provider.
The Affordable Connectivity Program is available to households participating in the free and reduced-price school breakfast and lunch program, including through the USDA Community Eligibility Provision. It is also available to households with income that is at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty guidelines, for households with a member receiving a federal Pell Grant, or receiving SNAP, Medicaid, or Section 8 housing benefits.
Eligible households can enroll by going to AffordableConnectivity.gov to submit an online application.
