Imagine a world in which completing an online job application, emailing a family member to catch up, or typing a paper isn't a reality — it's a daily challenge.
We all know that the Web is an incredible tool — it allows us to connect with friends and family, apply for jobs, learn about government benefits and so much more. Now, with the expanded Internet Essentials program in Colorado, Comcast is working to put this great resource in the homes of thousands of families. Internet Essentials helps close the digital divide by directly addressing three of the primary barriers to broadband adoption: a lack of understanding of how the Internet is relevant and useful; the cost of a home computer; and the cost of Internet service.
I recently joined local public figures such as Steve Wasiecko (Aurora Public Library), Brian Dino (Denver Public Schools) and Andrea Herrera Moreno (Mi Casa) at the Colorado Children's Campaign Annual Luncheon to announce the expansion of Internet Essentials in Colorado. The program — which last year provided Internet and digital literacy to more than 400,000 individuals nationwide — and provides Internet service for $9.95 per month, new computers discounted for $149 and free digital literacy training to families in Colorado with children who are eligible to receive free and reduced-price lunches under the National School Lunch Program (NSLP).
Comcast has also doubled the broadband speeds and upgraded the free Internet safety software and identity theft protection. In addition, we've worked to enrich digital literacy training efforts both online and in-person, streamlined the approval process and have introduced a bulk order program that empowers community-based organizations to purchase Internet Essentials accounts so they can connect the eligible families they serve.
In the past year, Internet Essentials has seen tremendous success and has helped more than 5,000 families, or 20,000 individuals in Colorado. We look forward to helping countless more in years to come.