Have you or someone you know ever struggled to pay an internet bill?

For those in our community living at or below the poverty level, internet service is often unaffordable. But what if there was a way for those who struggle to pay their bills to be able to afford internet access?

Comcast recently introduced their Internet Essentials program, which makes internet access affordable, even if someone is struggling to make ends meet. The Internet Essentials program offers $10/month internet for low-income households that apply online. Families, those in need of housing assistance, seniors, and college students are encouraged to apply if they find this would be beneficial. Whether you are a college student who uses the internet for their classes, someone who uses the internet for work-related material, or for entertainment purposes, this effort can make it easier for those who are eligible.

Since we live in a world that is so dependent and driven by technology, $10/month internet is a great way for those on a tight budget who need access to the internet on a consistent basis.

According to Comcast, the following services are included:

• 10 Mbps Internet service for just $9.95 a month + tax
• No activation fees and no equipment rental fees
• Option to purchase a computer for just $149.99 + tax
• Access to free Internet training online, in print, and in person
• A wireless gateway, delivering in-home WiFi at no additional cost

Participants who qualify for this campaign will never see a rise in prices. This can put those who wish to plan their budget at ease, knowing they will not have to pay more than the original price. Families and individuals will not receive a credit check or any installation fees upon buying the package. This Internet Essentials program applies to households in areas where Comcast offers internet services.

Once individuals are deemed eligible to receive this package, there are tutorials online to get the most out of their new internet, instructions on how to maneuver through different areas, and a plethora of additional resources. If an individual wishes to get more hands-on, they can check nearby Comcast locations where free computer classes are offered.

If you are interested in checking your eligibility, visit www.internetessentials.com to apply.

In efforts to mark their year-round dedication to giving back to the community, Comcast NBCUniversal also hosts Comcast Cares Day, a proud company tradition. This year, Comcast Cares Day will be on April 30^th. This is a day when their employees participate in many volunteer opportunities that help their local neighborhoods and communities.

As another way for them to help their local community, Comcast runs a workplace campaign through United Way of Larimer County that is meant to encourage their thousands of employees to donate, volunteer, and speak out on specific causes each year that aim to make a difference in their own back yard.

In Larimer County, Comcast NBCUniversal is promoting their Internet Essentials program to give back to the community, and encourage individuals to apply for their cheap internet service. Comcast provides generous donations to United Way of Larimer County, and we are very appreciative of their support for our mission to make a difference in Larimer County.

*Note: Comcast NBCUniversal and its employees are supporters of United Way of Larimer County. The purpose of this blog post is strictly informational and is not intended as an endorsement in any way.

			Kaitlyn Taggart Kaitlyn is the Marketing and Communications Intern for United Way of Larimer County. She is studying Journalism at Colorado State University, and enjoys quoting movies in her free time.