Comcast Corp. this week introduced its “Internet Essentials" program for low-income families in order to close the “digital divide" by offering inexpensive Internet service, affordable computers and digital literacy training.
The Internet and cable television giant unveiled the program Tuesday at Ballou High School in the District of Columbia, where students, school officials and national and local community partners joined Comcast Executive Vice President David L. Cohen, FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski and District of Columbia Public Schools Chancellor Kaya Henderson.
“Internet Essentials helps level the playing field for low-income families by connecting students online with their teachers and their schools’ educational resources," Cohen said. “The program will enable parents to receive digital literacy so they can do things like apply for jobs online or use the Internet to learn more about healthcare and government services available where they live."
Genachowski said the program aims to provide discounted Internet service to millions of low-income families.
“I challenge other service providers to take concrete steps to help close the broadband adoption gap," he said.
Under the Internet Essentials program, eligible participants will receive residential Internet service for $9.95 a month plus applicable taxes, a voucher to buy a low-cost computer for $149.99 plus tax and access to free digital literacy training.
Philadelphia-based Comcast said it’s working with school districts and community-based organizations across the U.S. to spread the word about the program.
