Kansas City was named the nation’s first Google Fiber community in 2011, but the city’s digital transformation has often served to emphasize underlying social and economic inequities—particularly with regard to internet access. Broadband access is no longer a luxury in today’s world, and yet many households in Kansas City are still unable to afford the service. The Federal Communications Commission contracted KC Digital Drive to implement a new program offering discounts to eligible households in the KC metro area.
KC Digital Drive is an area nonprofit dedicated to amplifying Kansas City as a digital leader while improving the quality of life for all people living in the region. The organization was founded to mobilize collective action towards digital inclusion and innovation and hopes to reach more residents with this opportunity. “While internet has become as important as other utilities, on average, just over a third of households in the metro area are taking advantage of this affordability program,” says Arron Deacon, the managing director of KC Digital Drive. “Access to the internet is vital for full participation in today’s world, offering the opportunity for remote work, telehealth, online education, informational resources, and so much more.”
Through the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), eligible KC residents can expect to see discounts of up to 30 dollars per month. “Access to high-speed internet is essential to leveling the playing field for rural and urban communities alike—and I was proud to vote for the legislation that is making that possible,” says Congressman Emanuel Cleaver.
Households with anyone enrolled in SNAP, Medicaid, WIC, Veterans and Survivors Benefits, Free and Reduced-Priced School Lunch, Supplemental Security Income, Federal Public Housing Assistance, or other programs are eligible, in addition to households with income 200 percent or less than the federal poverty guidelines. “Far too many Kansans either can’t afford [the internet] or live in communities where it doesn’t reach,” says Congresswoman Sharice Davids. “The Affordable Connectivity Program will help close the digital gap and keep our communities connected—particularly those who have not had access to high-speed internet in the past.”
Kansas City metro residents can sign up directly on the getacptoday.org website.