Seeking donations
On May 12, the Federal government will launch the Broadband Emergency Benefit program to provide up to a $50 discount per month on internet service (home or mobile) for qualifying households and a one-time $100 discount for purchasing a computer. This program will continue until the funds run out or 6 months after the end of the federal national emergency for COVID. Right now, timing is crucial to make sure members of our community have an opportunity to take advantage of this program.
As with any program, there are paperwork requirements and quirks (e.g., assistance to households must be provided in person). Digital Inclusion St Pete would like to help alleviate those challenges by doing the following:
- Establish a project coordinator who will recruit a network of organizations (e.g., 30 Digital Inclusion working group members, schools, government organizations, others) to assist families to correctly submit the necessary paperwork.
- Host information sessions to educate these organizations and provide tips for the application process.
- Conduct a training program for volunteers.
- Create a communications campaign to provide more visibility for this program.
- Work with the Community Tech House, neighborhood tech hubs, and others to set up “Service Centers” and conduct special assistance events.
- Gather metrics throughout this process about where we have households experiencing internet challenges.
The $15,000 we are seeking will be used for a project coordinator, service centers to reimburse costs, and the communications campaign. These funds would be used over the next 4-6 months.
The Pinellas Community Foundation has contributed $10,000
Details about the Broadband Emergency Benefit can be found at https://www.fcc.gov/broadbandbenefit
Details about Digital Inclusion St Pete are provided in the attached flyer and at https://www.digitalstpete.com/
