Spectrum is working to close the digital divide and connect low-income families to the internet.

  • Spectrum offering internet to low-income families
  • The program is available to Manatee County families
  • For more information, go to www.SpectrumInternetAssist.com

Starting Tuesday, the company will offer its Spectrum Internet Assist Program to low-income families in Manatee County.

"It's so crucial today for people to stay connected, search for jobs, homework for kids, and this is the opportunity for Spectrum to make that available for low-income families and seniors," said Joe Durkin, Spectrum’s director of communications for Florida.

Dr. Diana Greene, the superintendent for the School District of Manatee County, said half of the district's instructional dollars must go into digital materials to start the year.

Textbooks are digitized, and students must be able to access the material online. Greene said students who don't have internet at home are at a disadvantage.

Maribeth Philips, CEO of Meals on Wheels PLUS of Manatee, said the internet is a good way for the organization to connect their clients to the outside world. They can communicate with family members, read books and do research.

After they are enrolled in the program, people can get high-speed internet for $14.99 per month.

To qualify, a member of the household must be a recipient of the National School Lunch Program, the Community Eligibility Provision or Supplemental Security Income for people old than 65.

People also can't have internet through Time Warner, Charter or Bright House Networks within the last 30 days or have any outstanding bills with any of the three companies.

Kina Jackson, who lives in Bradenton, said she qualifies for the program. She has two sons and can't afford internet at home.

"It's like $50 to $60, and you have to have good credit a lot of times," Jackson said.

Jackson currently travels to Turning Points to use the computer to search for jobs and to provide homework and entertainment opportunities for her children.

She said the Spectrum Internet Assist is perfect for her family and plans to sign up.

"I am very excited," Jackson said. "I am glad I found out about it."

To assist consumers with the eligibility process and enrollment, Charter has launched a new dedicated Spectrum Internet Assist website a www.SpectrumInternetAssist.com

Prospective enrollees may also call the Spectrum Internet Assist toll-free helpline at 1-844-525-1574.

Charter is the parent company of Bay News 9.