Google Fiber Provides Free Internet for Select Affordable Housing Residents

Google Teams Up with HUD and ConnectHome to Provide Fast, Free Internet to Those in Need
 

Google Fiber has announced free gigabit Internet service to residents of selected public housing projects connected to its fiber optic service in U.S. cities, reports Computerworld.com. 

The program was launched at West Bluff, an affordable housing community in Kansas City, Missouri, where 100 homes have been connected to Google Fiber. Across the Kansas City area, Google is now working with affordable housing providers to connect as many as nine properties that could reach more than 1,300 local families.  The program is an extension of Google’s work with ConnectHome, an initiative of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development  (HUD) and the Obama administration. Former AGRM Director of Education Michael Liimatta manages the ConnectHome program. HUD Secretary Julian Castro said that under the program, up to 200,000 children in affordable housing in 28 cities are expected to be connected to fast Internet. Google Fiber is expected to be a part of those connections in Atlanta, Durham, Nashville, and San Antonio. 

There will be no cost to local housing authorities, their residents, or HUD. Google will absorb the costs of the free service, and there will be no fees or contracts. In addition to free Internet, eligible residents will work with ConnectHome partners like Connecting for Good and Surplus Exchange to be able to purchase discounted computers and learn new computer skills. 

  

 

 

Photo: Google News website screenshot via photopin (license)