Internet access has been critical during the pandemic, and many of your school’s families may have struggled with obtaining devices or getting or maintaining internet service. The Emergency Broadband Benefit is a temporary program from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) that provides eligible households with discounts of up to $50/month for internet access and a one-time discount of up to $100 for a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet (purchased through a participating provider).

The FCC has produced flyers in English and Spanish that you can share with your community. Those who qualify for a benefit are any household with a member that:

  • Has income at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines or participates in other government assistance programs
  • Receives free or reduced school lunch or breakfast
  • Received a Federal Pell Grant this year
  • Lost significant income due to job loss or furlough since February 29, 2020
  • Meets low-income criteria for a COVID-19 program or a participating provider’s program

Be sure to share the flyers with your school community so those in need can take advantage of the program. Connect with your school’s administration so they can share the information with families as they prepare for the coming school year. The FCC has produced an outreach toolkit with sample items and graphics that PTAs and schools can use. Families can find more information and resources at GetEmergencyBroadband.org.