Community Tech Network is thrilled to announce that it has received a $20,000 grant from Google Fiber to support us as we launch an Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) enrollment specialist training program.
The Affordable Connectivity Program provides eligible low-income households with discounts on their monthly internet services. However, many people are still unfamiliar with the program and uncertain about how to sign up. To address this issue, CTN is training members of nonprofit organizations, social service providers, and other agencies so that they are equipped to help their clients register for the ACP.
To officially kick off this initiative, Google Fiber funded an event during Digital Inclusion Week 2022 (October 3 – 7) , in which CTN, along with Austin Urban Technology Movement and Goodwill of Central Texas, trained 20 individuals as ACP enrollment specialists.
Both Google Fiber and CTN are extremely excited about their partnership.
Google Fiber’s John-Michael Cortez says: “Access to fast, reliable internet is a basic need in today’s society. You can’t fully participate in the economy, democracy, and entertainment without it. Yet, there are many digital deserts, as low-income neighborhoods tend to have less access. We think that the ACP represents an incredible opportunity to address these gaps in access and that it can massively level the playing field. We want as many people who qualify as possible to enroll.”
Google Fiber is actively supporting digital equity in many other ways. For example, the organization invests in building broadband infrastructure in traditionally underserved neighborhoods. Says John-Michael, “We prioritize building in places where others have not.”
Additionally, Google Fiber has provided free internet services to many low-income families living in public housing and to numerous community organizations, including libraries, high schools, and recreation centers.
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