Having a quality connection to the internet and a reliable device (whether computer or table) have become almost a necessity for success at school and work in today’s society. Several partners – including Macon-Bibb County, the Macon-Bibb County Housing Authority, Cox Communications, Quality Computers, and EveryoneOn – have been working this year on a federal initiative known as ConnectHome.
 
With the school starting August 1, the Housing Authority Cox Communications, and EveryoneOn are hosting or attending several Back-to-School events to get devices into children’s hands and internet into their homes.  At each of these events, people can sign up for the service and/or purchase a refurbished device or new tablet, depending on their eligibility. There will also be fun activities and food that the whole family can enjoy.
 
Since July 2015, eligible residents could qualify for high-speed internet at a reduced cost, a less expensive refurbished computer, and a tablet pre-loaded with apps and activities. Cox Communications offers qualified families of MBCHA public housing developments high-speed home Internet at $9.95 per month as part of its Connect2Compete program, which was successfully implemented several years ago. Cox is also partnering with the national digital inclusion nonprofit EveryoneOn to offer new Connect2Compete customers $30 tablet devices with keyboards, educational content, and wireless routers.
 
Additionally, Quality Computers offers refurbished tablets, laptops, printers, and more at very affordable rates. Several organizations and churches have pledged to raise the funds to purchase computer devices for the people they work with to make it easier for them to access the program.