(Stephen Nessen/WNYC)
More New York City families will have access to the internet thanks to a partnership with the city, a non-profit organization, Computers for Youth (CFY), and Time Warner Cable.
The program, funded by state and federal grants, provides some of New York's low-income families with free computers, as well as discounted internet service.
Time Warner spokesperson Bobby Amirshahi said the program isn't just about internet access. "They get a broad band connection that helps extend their learning day from the school into the home and it better engages parents into what their students are studying," he said,
The program currently serves the families of 773 New York City 6th graders. It has been expanded to include 7th and 8th graders in 72 public middle schools. Transfer high school students are also eligible to enroll in the program. Essentially families that qualify for reduced school lunches are eligible for this program.
Once accepted, CFY provides the students with free computers and training.
Amirshahi said Time Warner is offering the first year of service for free, the second year the service is billed at $9.99, and in the third year the service costs $14.99
Jenna Flanagan has been an Associate Producer and contributing reporter for WNYC's All Things Considered, local news since 2006. Prior to that, she worked for 3 years as a general assignment reporter for the WBGO news department and won a Garden State Association of Black Journalists award.
Leave a Comment
Register for your own account so you can vote on comments, save your favorites, and more. Learn more.
Please stay on topic, be civil, and be brief.
Email addresses are never displayed, but they are required to confirm your comments. Names are displayed with all comments. We reserve the right to edit any comments posted on this site. Please read the Comment Guidelines before posting. By leaving a comment, you agree to New York Public Radio's Privacy Policy and Terms Of Use.