DETROIT – Getting Detroiters connected to the internet is the goal of a collaborative effort between several organizations and the city.
The Affordable Connectivity Program offers discounts and, at times, free internet services for qualified applicants so everyone can have access.
“We look at connectivity as a human right,” said Vittoria Katanski, director of Connect 313.
Nowadays, much of our daily activities are connected to the internet, from grocery shopping and delivery to paying bills, but the internet is not accessible or affordable to everyone.
“A typical household in Detroit makes less than $40,000 a year and when you have that kind of income, it’s a critical decision: do I pay for my groceries or the internet,” Katanski said.
Connect 313 is working to get as many qualified Detroiters as possible to sign up for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) started by the FCC.
The deadline is Wednesday, Feb. 7. You could receive at least $30 off your monthly bill and $100 toward an iPad or computer device.
Katanski says Detroit is leading the nation in ACP signups, with 150,000 people registered, including the Muhammads, who came across the program six months ago.
Internet service is critical for their family because Nuri Muhammad has a disability.
“It helps you know,” said Muhammad. “I’m able to reach my neurologist through telehealth. Same thing with my primary doctor, to reach him telling me to be responsive.”
The money they save goes to other necessities like diapers for their children.
“We had the service, but to know that you can’t save, quick math -- $30 a month, which rounds out to about $360 a year. That’s a nice little chunk,” Muhammad said.
Click here to learn more about other internet resources for Detroiters.