Internet Access Assistance for Households

By

Dear Families,

We are currently completing the Emergency Connectivity Fund FCC Form 471.  This will help us obtain routers for student households without a broadband connection or with a broadband connection that is not sufficient for remote learning.  We hope to have more information in August.  In the meantime, you can find resources shared by the AOE below.  Please feel free to call me with questions.  I am here to support our children and their families.

Patricia Aigner

Technology Director

802-773-1900

 

Other Programs Available to Households (AOE Broadband Supports and Resources for Families, Revised April 22, 2021)

Rev. April 22, 2021

Purpose

 

This document provides a list of resources for supervisory unions/districts (SU/SDs) to use when working with students and families who require internet access and other financial supports. This document is not an exhaustive list of resources, but rather a helpful guide to targeted programs related to the internet and utilities. As new information emerges, we will add to this communication. Those needing a broader list of resources are directed to Vermont 2-1-1, a free and confidential service serving Vermonters statewide with information and resources to help maintain and improve their health and well-being. By dialing 2-1-1, callers are connected to trained representatives that provide referrals to a variety of local and statewide social services to help meet their needs. Information is also available online by visiting Vermont 2-1-1 Find Resources.

Emergency Broadband Assistance Program Approved by FCC

School administrators may be aware of families struggling to afford the monthly cost for the internet. This program may be helpful to these families. On Feb. 25, 2021, the FCC unanimously adopted a Report and Order that established the Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) program, a $3.2 billion federal initiative to help lower the cost of high-speed internet for eligible households during the on-going COVID-19 pandemic. The EBB program will provide a discount of up to $50 per month towards broadband service for eligible families. Eligible households can also receive a one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase a laptop, desktop computer or tablet from participating providers if they contribute $10-$50 toward the purchase price. The FCC has not yet announced the start date for the program but anticipates it will be open by the end of April. For more information on the program and the eligibility requirements, go to Emergency Broadband Benefit | Federal Communications Commission (fcc.gov).

 

Assistance with Internet Costs

 

Listed below are a variety of programs offered by broadband companies that aim to offer affordable connectivity options to schools and student households. Also listed are companies offering connection service in hard-to-reach areas of Vermont and companies working with the government Lifeline program. The list below is not an endorsement of any one vendor or program.

Contact Information

If you have questions about this document or would like additional information please contact: Lisa Helme, Student Pathways Division, at lisa.helme@vermont.gov or (802) 828-6956.

  • Cloud Alliance: Cloud Alliance provides a community-based fixed wireless internet network for select communities in central and northern Washington County, where internet service may be difficult or non-existent. Contact: (888) 939-2568.
  • Comcast: Internet Essentials program offers low service fees for student households eligible for public assistance Contact: Customer service, (855) 846-8376.
  • Consolidated Communications (CC): The Lifeline program is a government benefit Eligible subscribers can apply a monthly Lifeline program discount to a qualifying service. After applying and receiving approval, a subscriber may contact CC to add the discount. Contact: USAC (800) 234-9473, CC (844) 968-7224.
  • Kingdom Fiber: This program has expired.
  • Mobile Beacon: Bridging the Gap works to bring equal educational opportunity for all Americans through their connectivity The Digital Wish program provides

donated mobile hotspots and low service fees to schools. Contact: Customer support,

(401) 934-0500, service@mobilebeacon.org.

  • T-Mobile: Project 10 Million offers subsidized broadband service for student households meeting school eligibility requirements. Service is paid for by the local Contact: Ryan Lopes, Government Account Executive, (617) 564-1313, Ryan.Lopes1@t-mobile.com.
  • VTel: The Vermont Telephone Company offers low income customers the VTel Lifeline The government benefit program provides discounts on qualifying service. Contact: USAC (800) 234-9473, VTel, (802) 885-9000.

 

Financial Support Programs

The Public Service Department has compiled a list of information and resources on the availability of telecommunication services during the COVID-19 emergency. Their connectivity resources support page includes information about what cable, telephone/DSL fiber and mobile carriers are doing to assist Vermonters in economic need. Go to New Connectivity Resources to Support You during the COVID-19 State of Emergency in Vermont | Department of Public Service.

Vermont COVID-19 Arrearage Assistance Program: This program has expired.Payment Assistance for Utility Customers