Mayor Craig A. Moe received the following information from Comcast and asked that the information be passed along to the residents of Laurel.

 

Comcast has created a new program, with the assistance of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), called Internet Essentials. In conformity with the National Broadband Plan, Comcast states that the program addresses key barriers to internet access by providing affordable internet access, the opportunity to purchase a computer and training to low-income families with at least one child receiving free lunches under the National School Lunch Program.

 

The Internet Essentials program will be available starting in the 2011 Back to School season. Eligible participants will receive Comcast home economy internet service for $9.95 per month plus applicable taxes and fees. There will be no activation fees, no additional equipment rental charges, no credit checks, no price increases and no long term contracts. Eligible participants will have the option to purchase a pre-configured computer for $149.99 plus applicable taxes. And eligible participants will have access to training online and in print.

 

An entire household will be eligible to participate in the program if the household is located where Comcast offers internet service, has at least one child receiving free lunch through the National School Lunch Program, has not subscribed to Comcast internet service within the last 90 days and does not have an overdue Comcast bill or unreturned equipment.

 

Additional information about the Internet Essentials Program can be found at www.internetessentials.com.