Monterey County offers free internet services to struggling residents

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The Internet keeps people connected to work, school, healthcare, friends, and family.

Even in this fast-paced age of technology, many people struggle to afford the internet, especially Salinas students and families. In an effort to close the “digital divide,” Monterey County officials are asking eligible residents to sign up for free internet.

Rais Abbasi, assistant superintendent of the Alisal Union School District, says the need to turn to homeschooling during the COVID-19 pandemic, which consisted of using computers or tablets at home, has been a wake-up call for schools across the country.

“California is a very rich state; it could be one of the largest economies in the world,” Abbasi said. “But it has pockets of very rich areas and very poor areas. We live in the East Salinas area, which has very depressed areas economically.”

He noted that a large portion of Salinas students and families still need help getting Internet access.

“When we collect data from national food programs collected by the government, we see how many people need help with food. It’s only with food,” Abbasi said. “So imagine the need for Internet access and other resources on top of that. That’s what it’s all about for families here in Salinas.”

On the topic:Parents and teachers travel many hours to educate the youth of Monterey County

Internet services are provided through the Affordable Connection Program, a government program designed to help low-income families get access to the Internet and Internet devices at discounted prices.

Those eligible for free online registration are asked to bring identification in the form of a driver’s license, state, government or military ID, taxpayer identification number, consular card or Visa card, and a birth certificate from any country for minors, which person who has benefits.

Eligibility documents requested include a monthly statement from Medi-Cal, CalFresh, WIC, proof of participation in the National School Lunch Program, and a Pell Grant award letter.

Several local school districts said they were initially unaware of the upcoming recruitment events, but have now released the information to parents, including AUSD.

“We have already provided hotspots because people don’t have the ability to connect, but there is a need,” Abbasi said. “We are posting information and an application on our web page to spread the word so that people can participate in this program.”

“I hope our local residents will take advantage of this opportunity,” said council leader Luis Alejo.

For more information on how to access the Internet at a discount or for free, visit the Monterey County website.

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