North Dakota will soon boost its infrastructure for high-speed internet, thanks to the latest federal subsidy. In the meantime, low-income households can apply for aid to keep their internet costs lower.
The $130 million federal grant, meant to boost access in underserved areas, is from the bipartisan infrastructure law.
Separately, community action offices in North Dakota are now taking part in the Affordable Connectivity Program under the Federal Communications Commission.
Case managers help people find out if they're eligible for a discount on their internet bill.
Kristina Brownell, executive director of the Community Action Partnership for the Jamestown region, said it's a big help for those who want to connect to the digital world.
"Whether that be applying for a program - we're seeing, you know, a lot of schools even going into the virtual learning situation," said Brownell. "So, I think it becomes more and more important every day you have the ability to make those connections."
She said a lot of clients also lack transportation, and having high-speed internet could make it easier to take online college classes or telecommute.
Recipients can get a discount of up to $30 a month toward internet service, and up to $75 a month for households on qualifying Tribal lands.
Haley Klapak is a case manager for the Southeastern North Dakota Community Action office. She recently helped a father and daughter, who said they often had to leave their house to use the internet, apply for ACP aid.
Source: publicnewsservice.org
Photo Credit: gettyImages-shaunl
Categories: North Dakota, Rural Lifestyle