Affordable internet program makes strides in San Antonio
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About 150,000 Bexar County households are enrolled in the Federal Communication Commission's Affordable Connectivity Program, which provides discounts and subsidies to get more people online.
Driving the news: SA Digital Connects shared the local number after the FCC said last week that more than 20 million households are enrolled nationally. The program launched in December 2021.
Why it matters: Barriers to the internet deepen the digital divide by limiting a resident's work and education opportunities as well as telehealth access.
Zoom in: San Antonio is one of five metros with the highest number of enrollments.
By the numbers: About 130,000 residents lack internet access, per a 2021 study by SA Digital Connects.
How it works: Those who qualify based on income or government assistance programs get $30 off their monthly internet bill. Eligible households also get a one-time $100 subsidy to buy a computer or tablet.
- Residents can get prequalified here. SA Digital Connects is also working with libraries to help people who don't have internet access apply.
What they're saying: Marcie Trevino Ripper, policy and data consultant for SA Digital Connects, credits the high enrollment to a citywide campaign that includes partnerships with the City Council, Bexar County, Family Service, Opportunity Home and Frost Bank.
Between the lines: The national and local totals were released on the heels of a bipartisan call for Congress to extend the ACP in the upcoming government appropriations bill.
Threat level: The ACP is expected to run out of funding by 2024 if no action is taken.