The “Online for All” campaign has been launched by President Joe Biden‘s administration to reach 20 million households and increase enrollment in the Affordable Connectivity Program. This program offers eligible households a monthly discount on internet bills as well as a one-time discount on devices like laptops or tablets, the Daily Dot reported.
Online for All Campaign
Vice President Kamala Harris highlighted that many Americans can now access high-speed internet for free or for $30 or less per month. Since its inception under the bipartisan Infrastructure Law in November 2021, over 18.5 million households have already enrolled in the program.
Closing the “digital divide” and expanding internet access has been a key focus for the Biden administration. They recognize that there are still millions of Americans, particularly in communities of color, rural areas, and older individuals, who lack access to high-speed internet.
However, the administration acknowledges that approximately half of the eligible population is unaware of the program.
They estimate that up to 48 million households could be eligible. To address this, the Department of Education (DOE) and the nonprofit organization Civic Nation have launched the Online for All campaign.
Various initiatives are underway to raise awareness about the program. Deputy Education Secretary Cindy Marten will inform school principals and vice principals, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) will reach out to public housing authorities, and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is launching a paid ad campaign and media tour.
READ ALSO: Colorado Congresswoman Who Campaigned For Reparations Loses Re-Election
Online for All Goal
Additionally, senior adviser Steve Benjamin will engage with older Americans, and DOE Secretary Miguel Cardona will headline a virtual educators’ event to help connect students to program resources. Companies like Comcast, Verizon, and AT&T are also hosting outreach events.
The goal of the campaign is to ensure that eligible households are aware of and take advantage of the Affordable Connectivity Program, bridging the digital divide and providing equitable access to online resources for all.