Connected Nation applauds Emergency Broadband Benefit Program as it officially opens to US families, individuals
The FCC-administered program provides discounts on internet service and related equipment to eligible households
Bowling Green, Ky. (May 12, 2021) – Today, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) officially opened enrollment for the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program (EBB Program) to qualifying applicants.
“Millions of Americans are still struggling with everything from remote work to distance learning to telehealth simply because they lack the access to internet they need,” said Tom Ferree, Chairman & CEO, Connected Nation. “Those millions include our nation’s children, senior citizens, veterans and military spouses, the physically challenged, Tribal and rural communities, and so many others. We believe this program will help address many of the digital inequities that persist—and are hopeful that this is only the beginning.”
Those eligible for the EBB program include, among others, anyone who experienced a substantial loss of income in 2020, those who currently receive or qualify for Lifeline benefits through SNAP and other federal programs, the free or reduced school lunch programs, and households with includes at or below 135% of the federal poverty guidelines.
“As a national nonprofit that has been working for 20 years to help close the Digital Divide, we believe this program is one step closer to helping our most vulnerable and at-risk populations access resources they need to improve their quality of life,” said Heather Gate, Vice President, Digital Inclusion, Connected Nation. “But the work is not yet done. We must continue to strive for digital equity and digital inclusion for every American.”
The EBB program provides up to a $50 a month discount on service and associated equipment, up to $75 a month for households on Tribal lands, and a one-time discount on a laptop, tablet, or desk top computer of up to $100 for qualifying low-income households. Internet Services Providers must opt in to allows customers to take part in those discounts.
For more details on who qualifies, how to apply for the benefits, and which ISPs are taking part, head to https://connectednation.org/ebbprogram.
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MEDIA CONTACT:
Jessica Denson, Communications Director
Connected Nation
jdenson@connectednation.org
502-341-2024
About Us: Connected Nation is celebrating 20 years of service in 2021. Our mission is to improve lives by providing innovative solutions that expand access to and increase the adoption and use of broadband (high-speed internet) and its related technologies for all people. Everyone belongs in a Connected Nation.
Connected Nation is a national nonprofit, based in Bowling Green, KY, that works with consumers, local community leaders, states, technology providers, and foundations to develop and implement technology expansion programs with core competencies centered on a mission to improve digital inclusion for people and places previously underserved or overlooked. For more information, please visit: connectednation.org and follow Connected Nation on Facebook and Twitter.