Comcast Rolls Out ‘Internet Essentials’ in Smethport

Smethport Web — by Nathan Muller

Starting in the “Back-to-School” season for the 2011–2012, eligible households in Smethport will be able to obtain high-speed access to the Internet.

Internet Essentials is a new program from Comcast that provides low-cost broadband access to the Internet, affordable computers, and digital literacy training to families with children in grades K to 12 who receive free lunches under the National School Lunch Program (NSLP).

The program will run for at least three school years, but any household that qualifies during the three-year period will remain eligible for the discounted prices so long as a child in the household continues to receive a free lunch under the NSLP.

“Having access to high-speed Internet service is essential in today’s world,” said Mayor Ross Porter. “It allows children to do schoolwork, adults to find jobs and grow Smethport’s economy, and families to learn and explore together,” he said.

When Internet Essentials launches this fall, eligible participants will receive:

  • Xfinity Economy Internet Service for $9.95 per month (plus applicable taxes) with no activation or equipment rental charges.
  • The opportunity to purchase a computer for $149.99 (plus applicable taxes).
  • Access to online, in print, and in person digital literacy training.

For more information about Internet Essentials, visit www.comcast.com/opportunity or call 1-855-846-8376 to request an application. An application will be mailed to you. Just complete and return it, along with lunch program documents from your child’s school. Comcast will notify you by mail about the status of your application within 7 to 10 days.