Tony Dungy Stresses Importance Of Internet Access For Kids
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) - Access to a computer and the Internet is easier than ever, thanks to a program called Internet Essentials.
It's run by Comcast and a very familiar face is the national spokesperson. In fact, you may even remember him in a Pittsburgh Steelers uniform.
Tony Dungy played for the black and gold in 1977 and 1978. He went on to have a successful career as head coach of the Indianapolis Colts.
Today, Internet Essentials is his new passion.
"Internet today is where it's at. So, our kids if they don't have access to it, they're really at a disadvantage," Dungy said.
The program provides low-cost Internet service and computer equipment to low-income families.
In just under two years, more than 2,000 families in the Pittsburgh area have benefitted as well as more than 11,000 families across Pennsylvania.
"My kids do all their homework on the Internet. They do their research on it, they're used to it, but we've got so many families who don't have it and those kids are going to be at a disadvantage if they don't know how to use it when they are competing against other people when they're applying for jobs, applying for colleges," Dungy said.
Dungy and other community and Comcast leaders took part in a pep rally at Langley K-8 school to spread the word about Internet Essentials.
Some Langley families are already taking advantage of the program.
Qualifying families receive home Internet service for $9.95 a month, plus tax.
They never have any price increases or pay activation or equipment rental fees.
At enrollment, families can buy a computer for just $149.99.
The package comes with free Internet training, online, in print and in person.
Families with at least one child enrolled in the National School Lunch Program are eligible.
To learn more, click here: http://www.internetessentials.com/
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