Comcast Offers A Digital Lifeline To The Disconnected (AUDIO)

http://www.npr.org/2011/09/12/140336719/comcast-offers-a-digital-lifeline-to-the-disconnected?ps=cprs



The company says low-income families will now be able to get a fast Internet connection for $9.95 per month; the question now is whether the effort can overcome the many barriers that keep the poor from getting online.

To be eligible, families must have a child who qualifies for the free school lunch program — that means an income of less than $25,000 a year for a family of three. Because Internet access doesn't do much good without a computer, Comcast is also offering coupons that will allow these families to buy a basic PC for $150.

"It is a permanent price, not a promotional price," he said. "You don't have to buy any other Comcast service to be eligible for that price."

**Opinion**

Great idea!