ABC for Students Program: The Alabama Broadband Connectivity for Students Program
By NHTC
Governor Kay Ivey has committed $100 million in Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act funding to deliver free internet access to eligible K-12 students in their homes this fall. The State of Alabama will use the funds to purchase internet service for low-income households with K-12 students so the children can participate in distance learning.
What is it?
The state of Alabama has launched the ABC for Students program to help eligible students pay for internet service through the end of the year.
Who is eligible?
Alabama households with students who qualify for free or reduced-price school lunches will receive vouchers to pay for broadband internet service.
How does it work?
Funded by $100 million from the federal CARES Act, these vouchers for broadband service will be delivered through the mail. They will be accompanied by a list of broadband providers who serve the area. Families simply contact the provider of their choice to arrange installation of internet equipment and service.
How is NHTC involved?
NHTC has met the requirements of the state of Alabama to support the program as a participating broadband provider. We will accept the vouchers, connect families with our reliable broadband service (where existing lines and technologies are available), and submit the vouchers with the proper paperwork to the state for reimbursement.
Contact us at 256-723-4211 to get connected or to apply your voucher to your current NHTC internet. For more details about the program, visit alabamabroadband.org.
NHTC is one of several independent and cooperatively owned broadband companies connecting hometowns and rural communities across Alabama. Collectively, these companies have invested millions of dollars in networks to serve some 600,000 homes, businesses, schools, hospitals and clinics across 24,000 square miles.