Massachusetts and Verizon enable new digital inclusion program

Rhea-AI Summary

Verizon has launched a program to provide wireless broadband access to underserved communities in Massachusetts and eight neighboring states, plus the District of Columbia. This initiative aims to narrow the digital divide highlighted by the pandemic, where 43.7% of low-income households lack high-speed internet. Eligible families include those participating in the National School Lunch Program and Pell Grant recipients. Verizon previously assisted over 38 million students with internet access during the pandemic, underscoring its commitment to connectivity.

Positive

• Launch of a program to enhance digital access for underserved communities.
• Addresses the critical issue of internet access exacerbated by the pandemic.
• Eligibility includes low-income families, enhancing community support.

Negative

• None.

The program will help foster digital access for underserved residents in eight neighboring states plus the District of Columbia

BOSTON, Sept. 16, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- To help narrow the digital divide, and with support from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Verizon Public Sector today announced a new program to provide access to wireless broadband data and voice services to underserved communities in Massachusetts and eight neighboring states plus the District of Columbia. Verizon will provide turnkey connectivity, devices and other solutions available to eligible families who lack access to the internet.

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts joins the Georgia Department of Education in Verizon’s program of sponsor-state agreements with state agencies and not-for-profit organizations to enable communities to provide low-income residents with internet access in a fast, simple way.

Under the Massachusetts agreement, state agencies or not-for-profit organizations in Massachusetts, Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Washington, D.C. can participate in this program. Eligible users of services in these states include those who participate in the National School Lunch Program, Pell Grant recipients, or members of households (as defined by federal tax guidelines) with a household income that is lower than 135% of the income designated by the Federal Poverty Guidelines.

The Covid-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of reliable internet access and the gaps in digital access. According to data from the New American Economy Research Fund, 43.7 percent of low-income households lacked access to personal high-speed internet at home, more than double that of the rest of the population. With many school systems implementing hybrid learning models for this fall, the risk to students and families without access to the internet remains critical.

This digital inclusion program is modeled after the Verizon Distance Learning program, which provided access to reliable, affordable Internet connections and solutions for more than 38 million students in 40 states and the District of Columbia during the pandemic.

“During the pandemic, we worked with state and local governments to provide connectivity for students shifting to online education as quickly as possible,” said Jennifer Chronis, Senior Vice President, Verizon Public Sector. “A significant digital divide persists, and our mission is to help narrow the connectivity gap by providing the easiest way for states and non-profits to get families online.”

Verizon Communications Inc. (NYSE, Nasdaq: VZ) was formed on June 30, 2000 and is one of the world’s leading providers of technology, communications, information and entertainment products and services. Headquartered in New York City and with a presence around the world, Verizon generated revenues of $128.3 billion in 2020. The company offers data, video and voice services and solutions on its award-winning networks and platforms, delivering on customers’ demand for mobility, reliable network connectivity, security and control.

VERIZON’S ONLINE MEDIA CENTER: News releases, stories, media contacts and other resources are available at verizon.com/news. News releases are also available through an RSS feed. To subscribe, visit www.verizon.com/about/rss-feeds/.

Media contact:
Geoff Basye
geoffrey.basye@verizon.com
(202) 748-1882

FAQ

What is Verizon's new program for underserved communities?

Verizon has launched a program to provide wireless broadband access to underserved communities in Massachusetts and eight neighboring states, along with the District of Columbia.

How does the digital access program work?

The program provides connectivity, devices, and solutions to eligible families who lack internet access, focusing on low-income households.

What percentage of low-income households lack high-speed internet?

According to data, 43.7% of low-income households lack access to personal high-speed internet at home.

What eligibility criteria are there for Verizon's internet access program?

Eligible users include participants in the National School Lunch Program, Pell Grant recipients, and households earning below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.

How many students benefited from Verizon's previous distance learning program?

Verizon's distance learning program previously provided access to reliable internet for over 38 million students during the pandemic.