York, PA (July 1, 2020) – York Housing Authority has partnered with Comcast to provide eight months of high-speed internet access through Comcast’s Internet Essentials Program to 200 eligible families served by the Housing Authority beginning July 6, 2020.
“Access to valuable information and resources has been one of the greatest challenges that COVID-19 has presented to some of our most vulnerable community members,” said York Housing Authority’s Executive Director Regina S. Mitchell. “We are proud to partner with organizations like Comcast who can help break down this barrier and provide the resources people so desperately need to navigate this unprecedented time.”
Internet service will be provided through Comcast’s Internet Essentials program, designed for low-income families and individuals to acquire access to the internet. In response to the Covid-19 pandemic, Comcast is offering two free months of internet access to qualifying low-income families that apply before the end of the year. The Housing Authority is purchasing an additional six months of service, enabling eight months of free internet access.
“Almost nine years ago, Comcast launched Internet Essentials and set a bold goal,” said Michael Parker, Senior Vice President, Comcast Keystone Region. “We are committed to closing the digital divide for low-income Americans so that they enjoy success at school, at work and in their communities and we are proud to work with the York Housing Authority to help achieve that goal.”
In the coming weeks, York Housing Authority will contact eligible families to connect them to Internet Essentials. Eligibility criteria includes eligibility for public assistance programs and residence within a Comcast coverage area. Applicants not served by York Housing Authority can go to: www.internetessentials.com using any web-connected device, including mobile phones. The accessible website also includes the option to video chat with customer service agents in American Sign Language. In addition, there are two dedicated phone numbers 1-855-846-8376 for English and 1-855-765-6995 for Spanish.
“At a time when things seem so disconnected, this effort is vital in bridging the information gap and keeping us all in the fight together,” said Congressman Scott Perry (PA-10). “This is an excellent example of the positive effects that private and public partnerships can bring to the American People.”
