The Central Ohio Broadband Access Program is now open for students and families to register for low-cost computers and 12-months of broadband internet service for as little as $20.
The Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC), in partnership with the ESC and PC’s for People, has developed this program to address the digital divide for Central Ohio’s school-aged children. Through our partnership, we will distribute up to 10,000 refurbished computers and 10,000 internet hotspots with 12 months of prepaid unlimited internet service, to low-income households with students in kindergarten through 12th grade. The program is open to any Central Ohio household with a K-12 student other than those attending Columbus City Schools (CCS is providing technology resources to their students through a separate program).
Community support for the program has been overwhelming, including funding, computer donations, and in-kind support from The City of Columbus, Franklin County Commissioners, Columbus Metropolitan Library, Cardinal Health, Chase Foundation, WCMH 4, CAS, the Columbus Chamber of Commerce, and more.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
- WHO CAN PARTICIPATE? Any eligible family with a K-12 student in Central Ohio, except for Columbus City School Students ** Click here for eligibility criteria
- WHAT'S AVAILABLE? Low-cost computer packages and mobile hotspot devices with a prepaid 12-month unlimited data plan for as little as $20 (limited financial aid is available)
- HOW DO I REGISTER? Families can register online in just a few easy steps **See below
- WHERE DO I GET MY EQUIPMENT? There will be multiple convenient pick-up locations to choose from around Central Ohio, including local library branches and schools
HOW TO REGISTER
- Visit pcsforpeople.org/ohio and click the blue registration button
- Select a pick-up location and time that's convenient for you
- Choose your devices -- computer, internet access, or both
- Provide some basic info and upload your eligibility verification (it helps to have these materials ready)