CHARLESTON, W.Va. — West Virginians who have been beset by difficulties from the pandemic will be eligible for more help.
Federal money set aside by the Federal Communications Commission will provide assistant to qualifying families to help with the cost of broadband internet service and with the purchase of a computer, tablet, or other connected device.
Applications are now open for the Emergency Broadband Benefit Program. The program sets aside $3.2 Billion in federal funding. Eligible West Virginians can apply to offset the cost of receiving broadband access at home during the COVID-19 pandemic and can receive $50 off their monthly internet bill and a one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase a laptop, desktop computer or tablet from participating providers.
“It’s not all the money in the world, but 50 bucks and 100 bucks to certain households are a lifeline,” said Governor Jim Justice in announcing the funding during his Wednesday Covid 19 briefing.
To be eligible a household must meet one of the following criteria:
–Household income at or below 135 percent of federal poverty guidelines
–Participate in the SNAP, Medicaid, or FCC Lifeline program.
—If approved for Free and Reduce Lunch Program.
–Experienced a substantial loss of income as a result of a job loss by being laid off due to the pandemic.
“Take advantage of that. Really and truly this is just additional fed dollars coming into West Virginia and it has a multiplier effect and it can help some families and everything, so take advantage of it,” said the Governor.
U.S. Senator Joe Manchin offered the following statement:
“Expanding broadband access to all West Virginians continues to be a top priority for me, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic that has shone a light on the necessity of broadband access in the 21st century. The Emergency Broadband Benefit Program will help West Virginians get connected during the pandemic so they can complete their homework, apply for jobs, and attend telehealth appointments. I encourage every eligible West Virginian to apply for the program and my office will assist anyone who has questions about applying,”