As the new academic year approaches, Montgomery County is extending a helping hand to low-income families lacking essential digital resources. In a substantial initiative to bridge the technological divide, the county is slated to disburse free computers and offer subsidized internet plans.
The Montgomery Connects initiative recently received a $7 million grant from the state, resulting in the provision of Maryland Connected Device Chromebook laptops. Overseen by the county’s Department of Technology & Enterprise Business Solutions (TEBS), this program is complemented by the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which facilitates mobile and internet connectivity subsidies.
According to a press release, Montgomery County intends to distribute 4,000 Chromebook laptops across several events. Each household can claim one laptop, limited to one device per address.
Additionally, ACP offers a substantial discount—up to $45—on monthly home or mobile internet bills. Notably, representatives from major service providers, including Comcast Xfinity, Verizon FiOS, and T-Mobile, will be present to expedite discount applications post-ACP enrollment.
“Every family needs a computer and internet in order for students to succeed in school,” said County Executive Marc Elrich. “Bridging the digital divide is critical to our equity efforts. Everyone must access this technology and it is imperative that we make sure that cost is not a barrier for families who need these tools.”
The program caters to households earning below 200% of the Federal poverty rate. Moreover, families benefiting from programs like free school lunch, SNAP, or Medicaid are eligible for a laptop and discounted internet plans.
“We know that all school children need internet at home for homework and parents need robust home internet for work, daily life, and to stay connected.” said Gail M. Roper, the director of TEBS and the county’s chief information officer. “But of the estimated 114,000 Montgomery County households that are eligible to have ACP cover all the costs of their home or mobile internet, just under 20,000 have enrolled in the ACP internet discount program.”
For more information and to book an appointment, visit the Maryland Connected Devices page.
Schedule for upcoming computer distribution events:
Wednesday, Aug. 16. 12-4 p.m. Germantown American Job Center, 12900 Middlebrook Rd., Germantown
Friday, Aug. 18. 3-7 p.m. Executive Office Building Cafeteria, 101 Monroe St., Rockville
Saturday, Aug. 19. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. East County Community Recreation Center, 3310 Gateshead Manor Way, Silver Spring
Tuesday, Aug. 22. 3-7 p.m. Germantown Community Center, 18905 Kingsview Rd, Germantown
Wednesday, Aug. 23. 3-7 p.m. Long Branch Community Recreation Center, 8700 Piney Branch Rd. Silver Spring
Thursday, Aug. 24. 3-7 p.m. White Oak Community Recreation Center, 1700 April Ln., Silver Spring
Saturday, Aug. 26. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. East County Community Recreation Center, 3310 Gateshead Manor Way, Silver Spring
