As one of the toughest school years in anyone’s memory fades into history and both parents and school districts turn attention to what school will actually look like this fall, the need for Internet access will likely continue to be paramount for remote learning, virtual classes and assignments. Recognizing the critical nature of their product to families everywhere, Comcast has announced extension of a deal that was originally set to expire at the end of this month.
In order to help provide additional support to students and families, Comcast has announced they will continue to provide 60 days of free Internet service to new, eligible Internet Essentials customers. Originally set to expire on June 30th, the free offer will now be available through the end of the year. In addition, Comcast will continue to waive, through the end of the year, the requirement that customers not have a past due balance with Comcast to qualify for the free offer.
Dana Strong, President of Xfinity Consumer Services, says, “For almost a decade, Comcast has been helping to level the playing field for families in need so they can benefit from all the Internet has to offer. So, we’re happy to be able to extend this 60 days of free Internet service to new customers.” Strong adds, “Now more than ever, connectivity has become a vital tool for families to access educational resources for students, important news and information about their community and the world, telehealth applications, or to stay in touch with family and friends.”
Since 2011, Internet Essentials has connected more than two million low-income families to the Internet, serving approximately eight million people. During that period, the program has grown from focusing on bridging the “homework gap” for school-age children to being deeply invested in providing digital equity. The program, which offers low-cost, high-speed Internet service for $9.95 a month plus tax, also provides multiple options to access free digital skills training in print, online, and in person. In addition, customers have the option to purchase a low-cost Internet-ready computer.
Internet Essentials is structured in partnership between Comcast and tens of thousands of school districts, libraries, elected officials, and nonprofit community partners. Individuals and organizations interested in becoming a partner, can visit the link below to order free collateral materials that will also be shipped free of charge. Here’s the link:
https://partner.internetessentials.com
Applicants can go to: http://www.internetessentials.com using any web-connected device, including mobile phones. The accessible website also includes the option to video chat with customer service agents in American Sign Language. In addition, there are two dedicated phone numbers 1-855-846-8376 for English and 1-855-765-6995 for Spanish.
