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PHLConnectED
Connecting K–12 student households to digital access with internet, laptops, and training.
About
PHLConnectED will connect eligible K–12 student households with access to reliable internet service at no cost through June 2022. Participants will not pay any out-of-pocket expenses or installation fees. The program will also provide digital skills training and support.
There are three core components of PHLConnectED:
- Wired, high-speed, reliable internet to the home from Comcast’s Internet Essentials program, or a high-speed mobile hotspot from T-Mobile for families who are housing-insecure.
- Distribution of devices, such as Chromebooks, tablets, or computers through their school.
- Digital skills training and tech support.
PHLConnectED is possible thanks to collaboration among business and civic leaders who came together to support Philadelphia students.
Process and eligibility
The PHLConnectED program prioritizes families with the greatest need for internet service. We will focus on connecting K–12 families who:
- Do not have any internet access.
- Have only mobile phone internet access.
- Are homeless or housing-insecure.
- Have students who participate in remote learning in locations without internet access (outside of the primary household).
The program’s eligibility has expanded. You may be eligible if you have internet in your home and:
- Participate in public benefit programs with income qualifications.
- Your child is an English Learner.
- Your child receives special education services.
Eligible households will be identified through data gathered by the Philadelphia School District of Philadelphia, the Charter Schools Office, and internet service providers. The school district or schools will reach out to these households through direct mail, email, robocalls, or text message.
PHLConnected 211 Hotline
The City has partnered with United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey to create the PHLConnectED 211 hotline.
- Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
- Available in over 150 languages
When calling, dial 2-1-1 and press option 1. You will be connected with a resource navigator. Families can expect a brief survey to help 211 resource navigators understand their needs.
The 211 hotline can:
- Provide basic information about PHLConnectED to families.
- Pre-screen callers for eligibility.
- Route them to the right school number to get a Comcast enrollment code or T-Mobile hotspot.
- Follow up to confirm that connectivity happened.
- Refer them for additional support if they need technical assistance or other supportive assistance.
Get involved
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Our programs
- Fralic Family Fund
- Hess Foundation