Sometimes we all need a bit of help and with the start of school, maybe your family needs better internet and more computers, but it’s all quite pricey—especially if you’re talking multiples. Fortunately, there are resources to help. There is a federal program which, when combined with those of local service providers can help with internet access. In Maine, we have a local organization that has been refurbishing and recycling used equipment to provide more affordable options and keep hazardous waste out of the landfills. (If you have equipment to dispose of, check them out, too!)
Affordable Connectivity Program
The Affordable Connectivity Program is an FCC program to assist households with getting affordable internet service for school, work, healthcare and more. Anyone already receiving various government assistance or meeting other guidelines, may very well qualify for reduced fee or free internet services. You can find out more about the offering and apply here.
The FCC has a more in-depth explanation of the program with additional links here. There is even assistance to get a working computer or tablet.
Area service providers have been advertising their own programs which are typically linked with the Affordable Connectivity Program and might be worth checking out. Understand that if you qualify for one of their lower-cost plans, the FCC’s program might pay that bill in part or in whole!
Not all providers service all areas, so check availability for your location. Links below are to the vendor’s pages on their particular offerings as of this article publish date.
AT&T https://www.att.com/internet/access/
Breezeline https://www.breezeline.com/acp
Consolidated Communications https://www.consolidated.com/support/residential-support/affordable-connectivity-program
RedZone https://www.redzonewireless.com/acp
Spectrum https://www.spectrum.com/internet/spectrum-internet-assist
T-Mobile https://www.t-mobile.com/brand/affordable-connectivity-program
TDS Telecom https://tdstelecom.com/information/affordable-connectivity-program.html
Verizon https://www.verizon.com/home/internet/acp/free-internet/
Xfinity https://www.xfinity.com/ie
Give IT. Get IT. provides service in both directions: they take unused equipment and refurbish it to provide low-cost equipment to qualified individuals and non-profits. Their recycling program attempts to re-use as much as possible and properly recycle the rest to keep hazardous waste out of our landfills. They have an online store where some things can be purchased outright. Need training and support? They provide that, too. Their website is easy to navigate, so check them out!
