Internet Resources Options for Area Families

COVID-19 Internet Access Guidance for
Families without Internet

Area schools have shifted learning to use remote learning techniques.  This can be difficult if you do not have adequate internet functionality.  If you have a PK-12 student or teacher in your household:

If you are in an area that can receive Spectrum cable internet:

• Spectrum is providing free home internet and WiFi for 60 days for any household with a PK-12 student or teacher that has not subscribed to Spectrum internet in the last 30 days.
• To request this service, call Spectrum at 1-855-243-8892.

If you are in an area that can receive Consolidated Communications DSL service:

• Consolidated Communications (formerly FairPoint) is providing 60 days for any household with a PK-12 student or teacher who qualifies and is within their service area.
• To request this service, call Consolidated Communications at 1-844-968-7224.

If you currently have Verizon Wireless as a cell phone service provider:

• Verizon is offering 15GB additional Mobile Hotspot data to nearly all plans, to be used between 3/25/20-4/30/20.
• Please refer here to learn more.

If you currently have US Cellular as a cell phone service provider:

• US Cellular is lifting data caps, overage charges, and tethering/hotspot capabilities on almost all of their consumer plans through the end of May.
• US Cellular has acquired more wireless capacity to cope with the added traffic. See this.
• Please refer here to learn more

If you currently have Sprint as a cell phone service provider:

• Current customers can receive unlimited data for 60 days with metered data plans.
• They are providing 20GB of Mobile Hotspot data free to customers with hotspot-capable devices.
• Please refer here to learn more

Study from car initiative:

• Many school districts in Maine are providing internet access from the parking lot. School districts have created guests networks that can be accessed from the parking lot.
• Please refer here to learn more

If you are concerned about being able to make internet payments during this pandemic:

• The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has issued guidance for providers limiting or eliminating service termination, late fees, and other access supports.
• Read full guidelines here.