Comcast Deals with the "Digital Divide"

In today's internet-connected world, many individuals assume that access to broadband connections is within easy reach of anyone who needs to get online. Alas, we have learned to take the internet for granted, and we have come to depend on it for a variety of everyday activities such as communications, information, banking, and education. But what we often fail to remember is that the price we pay for internet access cannot be afforded by every household, especially in these times of economic uncertainty.

People who cannot afford to pay for a reasonably fast internet connection at home have fallen victim to “the digital divide," where essential, everyday comforts of internet cannot be used by lower-income families who must spend their money on other necessities. The digital divide can be quite alienating, especially for low-income families with school-age children.

At least one major broadband service provider is willing to address the digital divide issue head-on. In certain areas, Comcast is rolling out Internet Essentials, a program that aims to alleviate the digital divide by offering a significant discount on monthly internet access fees. The way Comcast deals with the problem now can serve as a blueprint for other internet service providers to follow.

To qualify for the Internet Essentials program, a low-income family must have at least one child who is enrolled in the National School Lunch program. Monthly service costs less than $10 per month under Internet Essentials, and any equipment fees are waived. Qualified families also receive a $150 voucher towards the purchase of a Netbook computer, as well as training on how to navigate the internet.

Internet Essentials is perhaps one of the best Comcast deals the cable company has ever offered; especially when considering how many school children are in dire need of a home internet connection. Cable television and broadband internet monthly bills are usually the first to go when a family considers cutting back on their spending. Being able to access the web from home is crucial for students of either primary or secondary schools, since educational resources are increasingly being developed exclusively online.

The Internet Essentials plan from Comcast is a good example of corporate social responsibility. Although this isn't the only charitable program the cable giant is involved with, it is one of the most appropriate, considering the state of the American economy and the potentially bleak outlook for young people who end up on the wrong side of the digital divide.

Blake Sanders writes at broadband comparison site Broadband Expert and focuses his writing on Comcast Deals and other high speed internet provider news and information.

Note: Photo courtesy of mr-photography via FlickR Creative Commons.